ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball is urgently seeking licensed electricians and plumbers, as well as members of the general public, interested in serving on the county’s Board of Electrical Examiners and the county’s Plumbing Advisory Board. The deadline to apply is Friday, July 17, 2026.
Our skilled tradespeople will always be tremendously important to our community and our economic health. With vital professional and community input from these groups, Howard County Government helps ensure we keep homes, businesses, and public spaces functional and safe by maintaining high standards of building codes and business practices.
Board member responsibilities include reviewing and making recommendations to county officials in all matters related to electrical or plumbing work in the county, including the conduct and standards of electrical and plumbing businesses.
The Board of Electrical Examiners is composed of seven members - two members of the public who do NOT derive income from the electric industry, four who are licensed and practicing Master Electricians, and one electrical engineer.
The Plumbing Advisory Board is composed of five members - three members of the public who do NOT derive income from the plumbing industry and two who are licensed and practicing master plumbers.
To be eligible for consideration, applicants must be a Howard County resident, 18 years of age or older, and be able to attend scheduled meetings and hearings, which are held at least twice per year in the George Howard Building located at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City or virtually.
Interested applicants should complete an application online by visiting www.howardcountymd.gov/applybc and select either the “Board of Electrical Examiners” or the “Plumbing Advisory Board” in the form. Eligible applicants will be submitted to the County Executive for consideration. If approved, the appointment is forwarded to the County Council for confirmation. Any questions regarding the application process should be emailed to applybc@howardcountymd.gov. Other inquiries about these Boards can be directed to the Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits at 410-313-2455.