Electrician at Dakotas & W. Minn. Area Electrical JATC
at Dakotas & W. Minn. Area Electrical JATC in Fargo, ND
About This Program
The Dakotas & W. Minn. Area Electrical JATC sponsors this union electrician apprenticeship in Fargo, ND. This employer-backed JATC program serves the Dakotas and western Minnesota region, offering IBEW-affiliated training that combines substantial field hours with formal technical coursework.
The five-year program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain hands-on experience working on real electrical systems under the guidance of journey-level electricians. Key skills include conduit bending, circuit installation, electrical panel assembly, motor controls, and compliance with the National Electrical Code. Classroom coursework addresses electrical theory, blueprint reading, and workplace safety. Apprentices earn wages throughout the program.
Graduates of the program receive journeyman electrician credentials recognized across the IBEW network. With continued development in the Fargo region and surrounding areas, qualified journeyman electricians enjoy reliable demand from commercial and industrial employers throughout the northern Plains states.
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.
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 North Dakota
Electricians in North Dakota are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by North Dakota State Electrical Board.
View full North Dakotalicensing requirements →Reviews
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