Apprenticeship Programs
Inside Wireman Apprenticeship
The IBEW Local 193 JATC 5-year Inside Wireman apprenticeship develops expert electricians skilled in power distribution, lighting, controls, and general electrical work. Apprentices split training between 900+ hours of classroom instruction and 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job experience with NECA signatory contractors throughout Central Illinois.
Apprentices gain comprehensive skills installing, troubleshooting, and maintaining electrical systems including:
- Power, lighting, and control systems in commercial and industrial buildings
- Electrical wiring and equipment for residential construction
- Motor controls, PLCs, and automation systems
- National Electrical Code (NEC) compliance and blueprint reading
- Safety procedures, tools, and equipment operation
Apprentice wages start at approximately 40% of the journeyman scale and increase every 6 months, reaching 85% in the final period. Upon program completion, Inside Wireman apprentices are promoted to Journeyman Electrician status — earning full union wages and benefits backed by the IBEW brotherhood.
Telecommunications Electician Apprenticeship
The 3-year JATC telecommunications apprenticeship trains specialists in low voltage electrical systems used for communication and data. Apprentices divide their time between 640 hours of classroom instruction and 6,500 hours of on-the-job training under experienced telecom electricians.
The program provides comprehensive skills in installing, servicing, and troubleshooting various telecom systems including:
- 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
Apprentices work on both residential and commercial projects gaining broad experience. They become adept at working with the latest network standards, infrastructure, and industry trends. Safety procedures, blueprints, codes, and industry best practices are emphasized.
Upon completion, telecom electrician apprentices join the IBEW as journey-level technicians ready to kickstart their career in this essential and growing trade.
Apprenticeship Benefits
- Earn While You Learn – Start at ~40% of journeyman scale with regular pay raises every 6 months throughout the program.
- No Student Debt – The JATC sponsors all classroom instruction and training materials at no cost to the apprentice.
- Full Benefits Package – Health insurance, pension, and annuity through the IBEW/NECA benefits trust from day one on the job.
- 900+ Hours of Education – Inside Wireman apprentices receive 900+ hours of NJATC-approved instruction; Telecom apprentices receive 640+ hours.
- IBEW Brotherhood – Join over 800,000 IBEW members across the U.S. and Canada, with reciprocal travel rights throughout the jurisdiction.
- Job Security – Work exclusively for IBEW/NECA signatory contractors who uphold union standards, fair wages, and safe working conditions.
- Career Advancement – Advance to Journeyman, Foreman, General Foreman, or pursue specialty certifications in fiber optics, fire alarm, and renewable energy.
- Journeyman Card – Upon graduation, receive your IBEW Journeyman card — recognized and respected nationwide.
The IBEW Local 193 JATC apprenticeship is one of the most competitive and respected training programs in Central Illinois. Apply today to start building your future.