IBEW Local 444 – Electrical Apprenticeship (Oklahoma)
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Oklahoma / IBEW Local 444 – Electrical Apprenticeship (Oklahoma)
IBEW Local 444 – Electrical Apprenticeship (Oklahoma)
Program Information
The IBEW Local 444 offers a registered Inside Wireman apprenticeship through its Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC), serving Oklahoma and surrounding areas. This apprenticeship is designed to prepare individuals for long-term careers as union electricians working on residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. Training follows a structured, progressive model that combines paid on-the-job experience with formal classroom instruction aligned with national electrical standards.
Apprentices receive hands-on training under the supervision of experienced journeyman electricians employed by signatory electrical contractors. On-the-job instruction covers tasks such as conduit bending, wire pulling, equipment installation, system troubleshooting, and jobsite safety. Apprentices work on a wide range of electrical systems, gaining exposure to lighting, power distribution, control systems, and other components commonly used in modern construction and industrial environments.
Classroom instruction reinforces field training and focuses on the theoretical and technical knowledge required of a licensed electrician. Coursework typically includes electrical theory, National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, blueprint reading, applied mathematics, and electrical safety practices. This combination of classroom and jobsite learning allows apprentices to understand not only how electrical systems are installed, but why they are designed and built in specific ways.
Program Length
The Inside Wireman apprenticeship with IBEW Local 444 spans approximately five years. Apprentices complete a minimum of 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training during this period, along with more than 900 hours of related classroom instruction. Advancement through the program is based on successful completion of required work hours, classroom coursework, and demonstrated skill development.
Programs Offered
- Inside Wireman Apprenticeship
Certifications & Career Opportunities
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, graduates are qualified to sit for the Oklahoma state journeyman electrician examination. Completion of the program allows apprentices to advance to journey-level status within the union. Career opportunities include working as a licensed journeyman electrician, foreman, general foreman, electrical estimator, or project supervisor with union-signatory electrical contractors. The skills developed through the program are applicable across a wide range of construction, industrial, and maintenance environments.
Program Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of at least one year of high school algebra or equivalent
- Ability to pass an aptitude test and oral interview
- Physical ability to perform work in active construction environments
Financial Aid & Support Services
The IBEW Local 444 apprenticeship program is tuition-free. Apprentices earn wages while training, typically starting at approximately 50 percent of the journeyman wage rate, with scheduled pay increases as training milestones are completed. In addition to wages, apprentices receive health insurance coverage and pension benefits through the union, providing long-term financial and employment stability throughout and beyond the apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
IBEW Local 444 – Electrical Apprenticeship (Oklahoma) is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Electrician.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.