Electrician at Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc. and IBEW Local 876
at Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc. and IBEW Local 876 in Caddillac, MI
About This Program
Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc. and IBEW Local 876 jointly sponsor this union electrician apprenticeship program based in Cadillac, Michigan. This employer-union partnership operates through a JATC framework, combining the resources of a regional electric cooperative with IBEW Local 876's training expertise to prepare apprentices for careers in power supply and electrical systems in northern Michigan.
The five-year apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain experience working on electric utility and power distribution infrastructure, developing skills in electrical wiring, equipment installation, systems maintenance, and safety protocols relevant to a cooperative power environment. Classroom instruction covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, and industry safety standards. Apprentices are paid throughout the program, with wages increasing as they gain experience and advance.
Graduates earn journeyman electrician credentials and IBEW Local 876 union membership, positioning them for stable, long-term employment in Michigan's electric utility and construction sectors, with access to union wages and benefits.
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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