Electrician at Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative and IBEW Local 876
at Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative and IBEW Local 876 in Cadillac, MI
About This Program
Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative and IBEW Local 876 co-sponsor this union electrician apprenticeship program in Cadillac, Michigan. This JATC-affiliated program pairs the operational experience of a regional electric cooperative with IBEW Local 876's commitment to union training, creating a well-rounded apprenticeship pathway for those entering the electrical trade in northern Michigan's utility and construction sectors.
The program is five years in duration and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work in real utility and construction environments, gaining skills in electrical systems, power distribution, wiring methods, equipment installation, and safety practices. Technical classroom instruction covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, print reading, and safety regulations. All apprentices are paid from the beginning, with wages rising progressively as they complete each stage of training.
Upon graduation, apprentices hold journeyman electrician credentials and benefit from IBEW Local 876 union membership, including access to competitive wages and comprehensive benefits. This is a strong pathway into a stable career in Michigan's electrical utility and construction industries.
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 Michigan
Electricians in Michigan are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes.
View full Michiganlicensing requirements →Reviews
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