Electrician at Centerpoint Energy & IBEW Local 949
at Centerpoint Energy & IBEW Local 949 in Minneapolis, MN
About This Program
CenterPoint Energy and IBEW Local 949 jointly sponsor this union electrician apprenticeship program based in Minneapolis, MN. This JATC partnership between a major utility employer and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers provides apprentices with training grounded in utility and energy-sector electrical work, all while earning competitive union wages from day one.
The program spans five years, combining 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain practical skills in electrical systems installation and maintenance, utility-related wiring, safety protocols, electrical theory, and National Electrical Code compliance — with training shaped by the specific demands of CenterPoint Energy's utility operations.
Graduates complete the program as journey-level electricians with IBEW union credentials. The utility-focused training provides a strong foundation for careers in energy distribution, infrastructure maintenance, and related electrical fields across the Minneapolis metro region.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$30
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
5 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
How to Apply
Electrician Career Outlook
National Median
$29.61/hr
~$61,588.8/yr
Apprentice Start
$15/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Electrician employment is projected to grow significantly, driven by construction activity, renewable energy expansion, and EV infrastructure buildout. The increasing electrification of buildings and transportation systems creates strong long-term demand. Licensed electricians with experience in solar, battery storage, or industrial controls are especially sought after.
What to Expect as an Electrician Apprentice
Duration
5 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~32 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
576 hours of related technical instruction (~115 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Electrician
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in Minnesota
Electricians in Minnesota are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
View full Minnesotalicensing requirements →Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
See something wrong? Help us improve this page.