Eastern Idaho Electrical JATC – IBEW Local 449 (Southeast Idaho)
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Idaho / Eastern Idaho Electrical JATC – IBEW Local 449 (Southeast Idaho)
Eastern Idaho Electrical JATC – IBEW Local 449 (Southeast Idaho)
Program Information
Eastern Idaho Electrical JATC provides a comprehensive apprenticeship program to train electricians for careers in commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects. Apprentices combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training under journeyman supervision, learning to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems across a wide range of industries, including nuclear facilities, food processing plants, shopping malls, substations, and traffic signals.
Programs Offered
- Inside Wireman Apprenticeship: Structured training including a minimum of 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience plus 960 hours of classroom instruction. Apprentices work under supervision while learning electrical codes, theory, wiring, troubleshooting, and safety practices.
Program Length
The Inside Wireman apprenticeship is completed in approximately 5 years and includes:
- 8,000+ hours of supervised on-the-job training
- 960 hours of related classroom instruction
- Instruction through the nationally recognized Electrical Training Alliance curriculum
- Credit recommendations of 52 semester hours toward an associate or bachelor’s degree
Certifications & Career Opportunities
Graduates earn journeyman wireman status and are prepared for diverse roles such as:
- Electrician
- Welder
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Concrete Worker
- Cable Splicer
- Instrumentation Technician
- Programmer
Career opportunities extend across industrial, commercial, and infrastructure projects both in Idaho and nationwide.
Program Requirements
Applicants must meet the following qualifications:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- High school diploma or GED
- One credit of high school or post-secondary algebra with a grade of C or better
- Valid driver’s license
- Submit official transcripts and documentation with the application
Additional pathways to qualify include 2,000+ hours of documented electrical construction experience, military service (DD214 required), or completion of the NJATC Tech Math course.
Application Process
Applications are completed online and require a $25 processing fee. Applicants must submit all required documentation, including transcripts, resume, and letters of recommendation. The process includes:
- Step 1 – Application Submission: Online application with supporting documents
- Step 2 – Aptitude Test: Covers algebra and reading comprehension (score of 4 or higher required)
- Step 3 – Oral Interview: Conducted by a committee representing NECA and IBEW
- Step 4 – Ranking & Selection: Applicants ranked and placed on a list for placement
- Step 5 – Indenture Agreement: Applicants must pass a drug test before signing
Application deadlines occur quarterly: February 28, May 31, August 30, and November 30.
Financial Aid & Support Services
There is no tuition for related training. Apprentices earn wages while they learn, with increases as skills and experience grow. Benefits include:
- Health insurance
- Pension and retirement plans
- Access to a multi-employer labor pool
Expenses may include tools, books, transportation, special clothing, and union dues.
Location
The Eastern Idaho Electrical JATC serves apprentices from the following Idaho counties: Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Blaine, Bonneville, Butte, Caribou, Camas, Cassia, Clark, Custer, Franklin, Fremont, Gooding, Jefferson, Lemhi, Lincoln, Madison, Minidoka, Oneida, Power, Teton, and Twin Falls.