Electrician at TransAlta Centralia Generation LLC/IBEW Local 125

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at TransAlta Centralia Generation LLC/IBEW Local 125 in Centralia, WA

About This Program

TransAlta Centralia Generation LLC and IBEW Local 125 jointly sponsor a union electrician apprenticeship in Centralia, WA. This JATC program is designed for individuals seeking to enter the electrical trade in a power generation setting, backed by the stability and benefits of union membership. Apprentices receive pay from their first day of training.

The apprenticeship runs five years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work within an active power generation facility, gaining skills in electrical installation, maintenance, and system operations relevant to energy production. Classroom instruction covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, safety standards, and plant-specific electrical systems.

Graduates earn journeyman electrician status recognized through IBEW Local 125, with specialized experience in power generation that is highly valued by utility and industrial employers.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$30

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

8,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

5 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

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

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration5 years
Starting wage$15.00/hr
Journeyman wage$29.61/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

Licensing in Washington

Electricians in Washington are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.

View full Washingtonlicensing requirements →

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