Apprenticeships

Electrical apprentices will plan, assemble and install all electrical apparatuses, equipment, fixtures and wiring used in electrical systems for maintenance, renovation and new construction projects.

Other tasks may include installation, connecting and troubleshooting of electrical machinery, control devices, industrial equipment and signal communications systems.

The apprenticeship program lasts three to five years. The program includes on-the-job training with knowledgeable and professional electrical contractors, and classroom instruction approximately two evenings a week.

The apprenticeship program selection process is very competitive. During each application period, typically 100-150 applications are accepted. Depending on demand, it’s possible that only 10 to 15 percent of applicants will be selected for the program.

Apprentices are required to purchase their own work clothes and shoes. Program fees are $300 per semester, due before the start of each semester. Each school year is divided into two semesters.

Apprentice pay rate is determined by the collective bargaining agreement between Local 573 and the contractors. It is calculated based on a predetermined percentage of the journeyman’s pay rate.

Apprentices are enrolled in a health and welfare plan, which is employer-funded. After a probationary period, apprentices can also enroll in a pension program, which is employer-funded. Apprentices receive no paid time off for holidays, vacations or sick days.

Electrical contractors are affiliated with IBEW Local Union 573, and are not necessarily based in the Warren area. All job assignments should be considered temporary, as there is no guarantee of continuous employment. Electricians do not have job seniority or tenure, as employees do in some other industries.

In order to succeed as an electrician, candidates should also possess physical strength and agility. Candidates should also be willing to work in all types of weather, as much of the work is performed outdoors.

Local 573’s work is completed in a five-county area that includes Trumbull, Mahoning, Portage, Geauga and Ashtabula counties. Apprentices must have reliable transportation and understand that they will not be reimbursed for travel expenses.

We offer two types of apprenticeships:

Inside/Commercial/Industrial electrical apprenticeship program

Inside electrical construction work involves layout, assembly, installation and connection of all electrical apparatuses, equipment, fixtures and wiring used in electrical systems. During this five-year program, students attend 1,000 hours of related trade classes and receive credit from Northwest State Community College. These credits can be used toward a two-year associate’s degree. Apprentices complete a minimum of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with signatory electrical contractors and receive a journeyman certificate upon completion of the program. To apply, click here.

Students spend three years in the Residential Apprenticeship Program learning to install power, communication and security systems, according to local codes and standards. They will work on houses, condominiums, apartment buildings and some assisted living facilities. During this three-year program, students attend 480 hours of related trade classes.

In the future, it’s possible that college credit could be given for these classes. Residential apprentices complete a minimum of 4,800 hours of on-the-job training with signatory contractors and receive a residential wireman certificate upon completion of the program.