Electrician at Western Colorado Electrical JATC
at Western Colorado Electrical JATC in Grand Junction, CO
About This Program
The Western Colorado Electrical JATC offers a union electrician apprenticeship based in Grand Junction, CO. This JATC program serves the Western Slope region and is jointly supported by union labor and electrical contractors, ensuring training reflects real-world industry needs. Apprentices are paid throughout the program and receive union benefits from the start.
Spanning five years, the apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on active projects across the Grand Junction area, learning to install conduit, wire systems, panels, and electrical equipment in commercial, industrial, and residential settings. Classroom coursework covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, blueprint interpretation, and safety standards.
Completing the program earns apprentices journeyman electrician status and union membership. Grand Junction serves as a hub for the Western Slope's energy, agriculture, and construction industries, all of which rely on skilled electricians — making this apprenticeship a solid foundation for a long-term trade career in the region.
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 Colorado
Electricians in Colorado are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Colorado State Electrical Board.
View full Coloradolicensing requirements →Reviews
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