Construction Electricity

Knut Boersma- Instructor

Mr. Boersma is a licensed journeyman wireman in the state of Alaska, a member of the IBEW 1547, and has been in the trades since 2008. He has worked across Alaska from Prudhoe Bay, to Bristol Bay, to Cordova, and in the Pacific on Wake Island, with projects ranging across light commercial, industrial, healthcare, industrial controls, substations, and special systems.Mr Boersma is born and raised in Anchorage, graduating from East High School in 2005, and UM in 2008 with a B.A. in Anthropology.

Grade levels 11-12. Successful completion of two semesters of Algebra 1 with a "C" or better is strongly recommended.

May be taken 3 times. A grade of "C" or better is required for advancement to successive semesters

Why take this course?

• Learn wiring from a licensed journeyman electrician
• Use the same tools and equipment as industry professionals
• Build confidence by wiring and troubleshooting real-world circuits and equipment
• Understand how electricity works and best safety practices
• Read blueprints and electrical drawings
• Connect with industry career opportunities, apprenticeships, and training

The Construction Electricity program provides in-depth instruction in the wiring and installation of electrical systems, as well as in the foundational principles of electricity. This program emphasizes shop safety and correct installation of electrical devices and equipment. Students will learn to interpret electrical drawings and to apply requirements of the National Electrical Code for designing electrical layouts, installation methods, and the maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of circuits and equipment. This program has an industry advisory board to keep the program relevant to industry standards and innovation.

Over three semesters of study, students will receive progressively more advanced instruction and hands-on training in the following areas:

• Residential lighting and power branch circuits
• Residential electric services
• DC & AC electrical theory
• Interpreting blueprints & electrical drawings
• Raceway systems & conduit bending
• Motor & control circuits
• Industrial/commercial wiring
• Single & 3-phase electrical power systems
• Photovoltaic system design, installation, and maintenance
• Construction careers and apprenticeship planning

Application of classroom theory is emphasized in shop projects. Students will create completely operational electrical projects in the shop using trade-specific tools and materials. Students will meet and work with a number of industry professionals on and off-campus.

Credits and Certifications

.5 Math

1.0 elective

Conduit bending

Opportunity for direct entry into the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) wireman apprenticeship

Opportunities for industry certifications such as OSHA-10, CPR/First Aid, and CDL permit courses 

The Career Tree strategy and classroom tool is a game-changing approach to spark student dialogue about what's possible in their careers and how to get there. King Tech uses this tool to help ensure a positive outcome and make a difference for students and community.