Apprenticeship program for in demand field offered

IEC Pennsylvania, the state chapter of Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC), is accepting applications for its next electrical apprenticeship class. 

Harrisburg-based IEC announced it will accept applications May 24 through June 2 for the class which starts in late August. 

The apprenticeship program covers residential, commercial and industrial construction and electrical wiring. Individuals accepted into the four-year program work full-time as apprentices for electrical contractors and attend employer-paid instructional classes in-person and online, IEC Pennsylvania said.  

The program is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor and Pennsylvania Apprenticeship and Training Council. 

IEC Pennsylvania said the job outlook for electricians is strong, as more electricians are retiring than entering the field.  

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, about 79,900 openings for electricians are projected each year on average through 2031. 

The median annual wage for electricians in Pennsylvania was $73,540 as of May 2022, which is an hourly wage of over $35 not including benefits. This represents a 7.1 % increase over the median annual wage one year ago. 

“Demand for electricians is growing and choosing to become an electrician provides excellent earning potential,” said IEC Pennsylvania Executive Director Marissa Bankert. “If you are interested in starting a career as an electrician, or are considering a career change, apprenticeship is a path that offers on-the-job training and enables you to earn a wage while you learn.” 

Applicants for IEC Pennsylvania’s apprenticeship program must be age 17 or over and have a high school diploma or their GED.  

IEC Pennsylvania also offers a state-registered pre-apprenticeship program for high school students and individuals who are interested in the electrical field. Pre-apprentices gain hands-on experience in the field and opportunities to shadow electricians as they prepare for the apprenticeship program.