Apprenticeship

Are you ready to launch a career where you can earn while you learn, gain hands-on experience, and graduate with zero student debt? An apprenticeship in the electrical trades is your ticket to a bright future. With an apprenticeship, you’ll start working right away, learning from seasoned professionals while receiving classroom instruction that prepares you for a fulfilling and well-paying career.

What Is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is more than just training—it’s a job that pays you to learn. Unlike internships, which often provide little or no pay and minimal training, apprenticeships follow an earn-while-you-learn model. This means you’ll work alongside experts in your trade, receiving a steady paycheck while mastering the skills that will set you up for lifelong success.

IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) / NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) Joint Apprenticeship Training Programs (JATC) or IBEW/NECA Area Wide Joint Apprenticeship Programs (AJATC) provide structured pathways to help you excel. These programs combine industry-leading standards developed by the electrical training ALLIANCE with local hands-on training tailored to your region.

Here’s what makes apprenticeships so powerful:

• On-the-Job Training: Get real-world experience working on projects that matter. From wiring buildings to maintaining power grids, you’ll learn by doing.
• Classroom and Lab Learning: Gain in-depth knowledge about your trade, from safety standards to the latest technologies, all facilitated by instructors experienced in the trade.
• Nationally Recognized Credentials: Upon completion, you’ll receive a certification that’s respected across the country, giving you flexibility and security in your career.

Why Choose an Apprenticeship?

Earn While You Learn

No more unpaid internships or waiting years to start making money. In an apprenticeship, you are paid from day one, with wages that increase as your skills grow. You’ll earn a steady income while learning everything you need to know to excel in your trade. And the best part? Most apprenticeships are free or low-cost, meaning you’ll graduate without the burden of student debt.

Learn by Doing

Forget sitting in a classroom all day—apprenticeships combine hands-on fieldwork with targeted classroom and lab instruction. You’ll spend your time working on real-world projects and expanding your knowledge, making every moment exciting and engaging.

Continuous Growth

Learning doesn’t stop once your apprenticeship is complete. As technology evolves, you’ll have opportunities to advance your skills and take on new challenges, opening the door to higher pay and career growth.

Support Every Step of the Way

Apprenticeships provide a built-in support system. You’ll have mentors and coworkers who are eager to help you succeed. Whether you have questions about techniques, tools, or your career path, you’ll never have to figure it out on your own.

Zero Debt, Big Opportunities

While college graduates often leave with tens of thousands of dollars in student loans, apprentices leave with valuable experience, a respected credential, and a paycheck—not debt.

What Does It Take to Get Started?

Joining an apprenticeship is straightforward and accessible. While requirements may vary slightly depending on your region, here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Completed an algebra course
• Pass an aptitude test
• Be drug-free

Excited to begin? Visit our Get Started page to find out how to apply to a registered apprenticeship program near you!