Apprenticeship Programs
Two paid union tracks. One brotherhood. Pick the path that matches your career and start earning on day one.
Inside Commercial Wireman Apprenticeship
The NECA-IBEW 193 JATC four-year Inside Commercial Wireman program develops expert electricians skilled in power distribution, lighting, controls, and general electrical work. Apprentices split training between 720 hours of classroom instruction and 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job experience with IBEW signatory contractors throughout Central Illinois.
Apprentice wages start at approximately 45% of journeyman scale and increase once a year across six periods, reaching 90% in the final period. Upon program completion, Inside Commercial Wireman apprentices are promoted to Journeyman Electrician — earning full union wages and benefits backed by the IBEW brotherhood.
Apply for Inside Commercial Wireman →
- Power, lighting, and control systems in commercial and industrial buildings
- Transformers, conduit installation, photovoltaics, and troubleshooting
- Motor controls, PLCs, and automation systems
- National Electrical Code (NEC) compliance and blueprint reading
- Safety procedures, tools, and equipment operation
Telecommunications Electrician Apprenticeship
The three-year JATC telecommunications apprenticeship trains specialists in the low-voltage electrical systems that power modern communication and data. Apprentices divide their time between 480 hours of classroom instruction and 6,000 hours of on-the-job training under experienced telecom electricians. Telecommunications apprentice wages start at approximately 55% of journeyman scale and increase every six months across six periods, reaching 85% in the final period.
Apprentices work on both residential and commercial projects, gaining broad experience with the latest network standards, infrastructure, and industry trends. Safety, blueprints, codes, and best practices are emphasized. Upon completion, telecom apprentices join the IBEW as journey-level technicians in this essential, fast-growing trade.
Apply for Telecommunications →- Structured cabling for computer networks and data centers
- Fiber optic and CATV systems
- Alarm, security, and surveillance systems
- Audio/video distribution technologies
- Building automation and environmental controls
- Voice and phone networks
Why apprentices choose IBEW 193.
Earn While You Learn
Start earning a percentage of journeyman scale from day one, with regular raises as you advance.
No Student Debt
Graduate from either program debt free.
Full Benefits
Health insurance, pension, and 401K through the NECA/IBEW Trust Fund.
Classroom Instruction
Inside Commercial Wireman: 720 hours · Telecom: 480 hours of NJATC-approved instruction.
IBEW Brotherhood
Join 800,000+ IBEW members with reciprocal travel rights continent-wide.
Job Security
Work for IBEW signatory contractors with fair wages and safe sites.
Advancement
Advance to Foreman, GF, or certify in fiber, fire alarm, or renewables.
Journeyman Card
Graduate with an IBEW card recognized and respected nationwide.
One of the most competitive training programs in Central Illinois.
Apply today and start building your future in the trade.