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What is an Apprenticeship Program?

Apprenticeships are industry-sponsored programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction for people interested in entering a trade.  An apprenticeship is not an internship. Internships are often short-term and are generally unpaid.  Apprenticeships are an “earn while you learn” opportunity: apprentices get paid for their work during the day and see wage increases as they progress through the program.

The Iron Range Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program is a 5-year Inside Wireman training program with standards approved by the State of Minnesota. Our program requires that each indentured apprentice receives a minimum of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training in the electrical construction industry under the supervision of a journeyman electrician. During the course of their apprenticeship, each apprentice is rotated on a yearly basis to a new contractor. This gives the apprentice the opportunity to receive varied experiences during their apprenticeship. The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee is responsible for all placements with contractors. While in the Training Program, apprentices are required to attend 900 hours of classroom-related instruction.

Apprenticeship Application

What is an Inside Wireman?

Inside Wiremen install conduit, electrical wiring, fixtures, and electrical apparatus inside commercial buildings and in a multitude of industrial settings. Major duties for Inside Wiremen include
  • Planning and Initiating Projects
  • Establishing Temporary Power during Construction
  • Establishing Grounding System
  • Installing Service to Buildings and Other Structures
  • Establishing Power Distribution within a Project
  • Planning and Installing Raceway Systems
  • Installing New Wiring and Repairing Old Wiring
  • Providing Power and Controls to Motors, HVAC, and Other Equipment
  • Installing Receptacles, Lighting Systems, and Fixtures
  • Troubleshooting and Repairing Electrical Systems
  • Installing and Repairing Traffic Signals, Outdoor Lighting and Outdoor Power Feeders
  • Installing Fire Alarm Systems
In performing these duties, Inside Wiremen must use many different kinds of tools, ranging from simple one and two-hand tools (such as pliers, screwdrivers, and cable-cutters) to power assisted tools like electric drills and cable pullers. They occasionally operate heavy equipment such as trenchers and aerial lifts.

What are the qualifications that are needed to apply for the program?

  • Applicants must be 18 years of age (at time of registration).

  • Be at least a high school graduate, or have a GED, or in lieu of a high school diploma or GED, have a two-year Associate Degree or higher.
  • Provide verification of 1 year of High School Algebra, Tech Math or post High School equivalent with passing grade. (Tech Math must show course description.)
  • All applicants must take the Standard NJATC Aptitude Test with a qualifying score of “4” or better. Aptitude tests are generally held on the last Monday of February. If an applicant obtains a qualifying score on the aptitude test they will be scheduled for an interview provided the application process is complete. Notification of this interview will be by mail and/or e-mail. Applicants will undergo an oral interview set-up by the JATC.
  • Applicants applying for apprenticeship must supply the JATC office with all the necessary required documents within 30 days from the date of filling out their apprentice application.
  • All application materials must be in the Apprenticeship Office by the last Friday in January in order to be considered for an interview.
  • (You are responsible to see that all requirements are turned in on time and must keep your address and phone number current with the Apprenticeship Office.)
  • If you applied for the program previously you must contact the JATC office and request your materials to be moved forward to your new application.
  • **If you apply for both the Duluth & Iron Range programs it is your responsibility to send in separate application requirements for each program due to the fact that the two programs have separate cut off dates. Your name will remain on the interviewed applicant list for two years after your first interview.
  • Apprentices selected for apprenticeship will have to supply themselves with a computer and internet access.

Documentation to submit at time of application:

  • Online Application Processing Fee: $26.50

  • Copy of Valid Driver’s License 

  • Copy of Birth Certificate
  • Complete High School Transcript or GED
  • Trade School Transcripts with Attendance Records (where applicable)
  • Military Records (if applicable) – Form DD214
  • Color Blindness Test (Can be taken at any vision center)