Generally speaking, anyone with the desire can qualify to become an apprentice. Of course, there are minimum qualifications that must be met in order to comply with national standards. Meeting those minimum qualification requirements will help to insure your success as an apprentice.
Completing high school, or the equivalent (GED), is a requirement for most programs. Any additional education is always useful. Students should focus on math, science, and communication courses to form the basis for continued trade related studies as an apprentice.
There are several things that you can do to prepare for entry into the Apprenticeship Program, which may enhance your position on the list of eligible applicants. Actual trade experience is probably one of the best attributes to have on your resumeí.
Often, helper jobs are available, or jobs in several other classifications, within the industry. Such work will enable you to gain valuable experience while you are waiting for an apprenticeship position to open up. Trade experience is highly regarded during the interview process.
Call any IBEW Local Union (with outside jurisdiction) in your area for details on how to register for a job. Opportunities in several classifications may be available. You may also contact any AJATC listed on this web site for more information.
Some individuals elect to attend trade schools that specialize in the electrical field. These are sometimes referred to as "line" schools. They are generally very expensive and give no guarantee of placement. We would not discourage a person from pursuing any additional education. But, there is no requirement to attend any type of trade school.
In apprenticeship we pay you to learn the trade.
