Electrician at Parkersburg IBEW JATC
at Parkersburg IBEW JATC in Parkersburg, WV
About This Program
The Parkersburg IBEW JATC sponsors this union electrician apprenticeship in Parkersburg, WV. As a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) program, it combines the resources of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers with local employers to deliver structured, high-quality training. Apprentices are paid from day one, earning wages that increase as they advance through the program.
This time-based apprenticeship runs five years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. On the job, apprentices work alongside journeyman electricians installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Classroom instruction covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, blueprint reading, and safety practices.
Upon completing the program, graduates earn journeyman electrician status — a widely recognized credential that opens doors to steady employment, higher wages, and opportunities for advancement into foreman or master electrician roles. This JATC program offers a direct path into a skilled, in-demand trade.
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 West Virginia
Electricians in West Virginia are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by West Virginia State Fire Marshal, Regulatory and Licensing Division.
View full West Virginialicensing requirements →Reviews
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