Become an Apprentice
Start Your Career as a Skilled Electrician
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 163 JATC Registered Apprenticeship Program is your gateway to a rewarding career in the electrical industry. Our program combines hands-on training, classroom instruction and comprehensive benefits, setting you up for lifelong success as a highly skilled electrician.
What is a Registered Apprenticeship Program?
A Registered Apprenticeship Program is a proven pathway to a rewarding career in the electrical industry. At the IBEW Local 163 JATC, our apprenticeship program combines paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction, preparing you to become a highly skilled electrician.
Our program is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, ensuring our curriculum meets the highest industry standards.
Earn While You Learn
Starting your career through the IBEW Local 163 JATC means you do not have to choose between earning a living wage and gaining an education. Our apprenticeship program lets you build your skills, your income and your future at the same time.
On-the-Job Experience:
As an apprentice, you’ll work for Local 163 signatory contractors alongside experienced journeymen, who will teach you the trade, help you develop your skills and show you how to work safely on the jobsite.
Competitive Pay and Benefits:
Apprentices earn a living wage from day one, with scheduled pay increases as they progress through the program. You’ll also receive excellent health insurance and retirement benefits, an overall package that outpaces most non-union opportunities.
No Student Debt:
The Earn While You Learn model allows apprentices to gain valuable work experience and skills without the burden of student loans. Plus, you’ll earn college credits that can be applied toward further education. Most first-year journeymen (individuals who complete the Local 163 Registered Apprenticeship Program) earn more than first-year college graduates.
World-Class Training
Our comprehensive training program combines hands-on experience and classroom learning, ensuring you gain the skills, knowledge and credentials employers demand.
Classroom and Hands-On Learning
In addition to on-the-job training, apprentices receive Related Technical Instruction (RTI) at our state-of-the-art Nanticoke training facility.
Expert Instructors
Industry Certifications
The Benefits of Apprenticeship
Our apprenticeship program is designed to provide not only the technical skills you need, but also the financial stability and professional support that set you up for long-term success. As an apprentice, you’ll gain real-world experience, earn industry-respected credentials and become part of a community that values excellence and teamwork
- Living Wages: All apprentices earn competitive wages, with increases as you advance.
- Excellent Benefits: Local 163 apprentices earn great health insurance and retirement benefits.
- Teamwork and Pride: You’ll join a team known for hard work, skill and professionalism — and take pride in every job they complete.
- Career Path: Completing the IBEW Local 163 registered apprenticeship program opens doors to a stable, high-demand career with opportunities for advancement.
Registered Apprenticeship Differs from Non-Registered Programs
- Official Credentials: Only registered apprenticeships provide nationally recognized certificates upon completion.
- Regulated Training: Registered programs follow approved curricula and standards. Non-registered programs may lack oversight, leading to gaps in training or safety.
- Career Advancement: Men and women who complete a Registered
- Apprenticeship Program earn journeyman status and the opportunity to advance their careers. Non-union apprenticeship programs may only teach apprentices certain trade skills, keeping them in a perpetual state of apprenticeship, including low pay.
Learn How to Become an Apprentice
See the application requirements to apply for an apprenticeship.
Start as a CE/CW
If you’re not quite ready to commit to the apprenticeship program, the CE/CW pathway is an excellent way to begin your journey in the electrical trade.
As a Construction Electrician or Construction Wireman, you’ll gain immediate, hands-on experience working on jobsites under the guidance of licensed electricians. This entry-level opportunity lets you develop essential skills, get a feel for the work environment and decide if a career as an IBEW apprentice is the right fit for you—all while earning a paycheck