Electrician at Dakotas + W. Minnesota IBEW JATC
at Dakotas + W. Minnesota IBEW JATC in Fargo, ND
About This Program
The Dakotas + W. Minnesota IBEW JATC offers a union electrician apprenticeship based in Fargo, ND. This IBEW-affiliated program is employer-sponsored and serves apprentices across the Dakotas and western Minnesota region, providing a structured, union-backed path into the electrical trade.
The apprenticeship lasts five years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training paired with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work daily alongside experienced journeymen, building skills in wiring methods, electrical theory, conduit installation, panel work, motor controls, and NEC compliance. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, load calculations, and safety practices. All apprentices are paid throughout training, with pay typically advancing at each program stage.
Completing the apprenticeship earns graduates journeyman electrician status recognized throughout the IBEW. The Fargo metro area and surrounding region offer steady demand for qualified electricians across commercial, industrial, and energy-related projects, giving program graduates solid long-term employment prospects.
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 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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