Electrician at Greater Nebraska Electrical JATC
at Greater Nebraska Electrical JATC in Columbus, NE
About This Program
The Greater Nebraska Electrical JATC offers a union electrician apprenticeship based in Columbus, NE. This IBEW-affiliated, employer-sponsored JATC program serves apprentices across the greater Nebraska region, providing structured training designed to develop well-rounded, career-ready electricians.
The five-year apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn by doing — working daily under the supervision of journeyman electricians on a variety of real-world job sites. Training covers wiring systems, conduit bending and installation, electrical panels, motor controls, and National Electrical Code compliance. Classroom coursework provides instruction in electrical theory, blueprint reading, load calculations, and safety. Apprentices earn wages from day one and typically receive periodic raises throughout the program.
Upon completing all requirements, graduates receive journeyman electrician credentials. Columbus and surrounding Nebraska communities support a mix of agricultural, industrial, and commercial construction, providing apprentices with diverse job site experience and solid long-term career 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 Nebraska
Electricians in Nebraska are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Nebraska State Electrical Division.
View full Nebraskalicensing requirements →Reviews
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