Person working in an open electrical box

Construction Electrician (ABC) Apprenticeship

Construction electricians install, connect, test, and maintain electrical systems for a variety of purposes, including climate control, security, and communications. 

Construction electricians typically:

  • Use a variety of electrical equipment and apply appropriate techniques to plan wiring installation from blueprints.
  • Wire a building’s electrical system.
  • Properly locate boxes and outlets and test continuity of electrical circuits to ensure compatibility and safety of components following national electrical code and complying with state and local building codes. 
  • Install coaxial or fiber optic cable for computers and other telecommunications equipment.
Work Conditions

Electrical work can be indoors or outdoors. The work is sometimes physically strenuous, requiring prolonged standing in cramped or uncomfortable positions. Electricians may work in dusty, dirty, hot, and wet conditions, or in confined areas, ditches, or other uncomfortable places. The working environment varies with each job and may include working on ladders and scaffolding. Electricians follow strict safety procedures to prevent injuries from electrical shock, falls, and cuts.

Training
  • 5-year program
  • 8,400 hours of on-the-job learning
  • 576  hours of paid related instruction—currently one full day every two weeks during the school year at Mid-State Technical College (Marshfield)
  • 200 hours of unpaid related instruction
Application Requirements

To qualify for this apprenticeship opportunity, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Age: 17 or older
Education: 

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Obtain a passing grade of “C” or higher or equivalent in algebra

Aptitude Testing: Meet required norms
Physical Ability: Must be physically able to perform trade work.
License: Must have valid driver's license or reliable transportation.

Get Started

If you meet the application requirements listed above, do the following to get started:

  1. Visit Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and select Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin (ABC) to learn more.

  2. Obtain direct employment through a company that operates an apprenticeship program or a similar sponsorship.

  3. Contact Melissa Kendhammer to learn about the application process:

    Melissa Kendhammer
    Apprenticeship Training Representative
    Bureau of Apprenticeship
    Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
    608.228.1323
    Email

Questions