Q. Which classification takes the most new apprentices?
A. Typically the inside wireman program accepts the most new apprentices. However, the inside trade also, typically, has the most applicants. Therefore, it is just as competitive as the outside line or telephone trades which have fewer applicants but also fewer openings.

Q. Which classification makes the most money?
A. All of the trades have close to the same wage rate, but of the three classifications, the outside lineman earns the highest scale. Telephone workers may receive the higher scale if they perform work under the outside agreement, otherwise they would fall under the inside agreement which covers the inside wireman.

Q. How much money will I make?
A. A beginning apprentice, depending on which classification he enters, will earn 50% of journeyman’s
wage, as set in the current Agreement. With each progression of 1,000 hours work experience behind you, a 5% wage increase will be issued.

Q. How much does the apprenticeship cost?
A. The AJEATT covers the cost of training for each apprentice. However an apprentice will not get paid while attending school and will need to plan ahead financially for the times he/she is scheduled to attend class. In addition, apprentices will also be expected to pay for their classroom materials.

Q. How long will the apprenticeship take?
A. Most apprentices complete the program in five years. This gives them enough time to accumulate 8,000 hours of on-the-job-training and complete the 24 to 35 weeks of classroom related instruction.

Q. How do I find a job?
A. It is the program coordinator’s responsibility to place apprentices with employers. His goal is to give each apprentice a broad area of work experience within the trade and to keep everyone employed for as much of the year as possible.

Q. Do I have to join the union?
A. Yes. You will become a member of IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers), Local 1547 and you will pay monthly union dues.

Q. When will I know if I’m accepted?
A. Positions for school and for work opportunities will be filled as they become available. Applicants with the highest scores will be notified to fill these positions. Those given the opportunity to attend school first will normally have at least a month’s notification. However, those called to fill work positions will generally be given short notice.