Electrician at IBEW Local 304
at IBEW Local 304 in Topeka, KS
About This Program
IBEW Local 304 sponsors this union electrician apprenticeship in Topeka, KS. As an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers affiliate, this JATC program is recognized for delivering high-quality, standardized electrical training through a combination of union-backed job site experience and formal technical instruction. Apprentices are paid throughout the entire five-year program.
The training program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside journeyman electricians on commercial, industrial, and residential job sites, building competency in wiring methods, panel work, conduit installation, and electrical troubleshooting. Classroom study covers electrical theory, National Electrical Code requirements, motor controls, load calculations, and safety standards.
Graduates complete the program as journeyman electricians, fully qualified to work independently in the trade. The IBEW union affiliation typically comes with progressive wage increases during the apprenticeship, access to health benefits, and a pension — making this a strong long-term investment in a skilled trade career.
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
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