IEC Northern Ohio – Electrical Apprenticeship
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Ohio / IEC Northern Ohio – Electrical Apprenticeship
IEC Northern Ohio – Electrical Apprenticeship (Cleveland, OH)
Program Information
The IEC Northern Ohio Electrical Apprenticeship is a four-year Registered Apprenticeship program designed to prepare individuals for professional careers in the electrical trade. Apprentices are employed directly by one of more than 32 participating electrical contractor members throughout Northern Ohio, allowing them to gain real-world experience while receiving structured technical education.
Training combines classroom instruction with extensive on-the-job learning. Apprentices work under the supervision of licensed electricians on active residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Jobsite experience may include installing conduit and raceways, pulling and terminating wire, setting panels, connecting equipment, and assisting with troubleshooting and system upgrades. Responsibilities increase as apprentices progress and demonstrate skill development.
Classroom education reinforces field experience by covering electrical theory, code requirements, safety standards, and practical application. Apprentices learn blueprint and schematic reading, grounding and bonding, motor controls, and systematic troubleshooting techniques. This blended approach helps apprentices understand not only how electrical systems are installed, but how they function as integrated systems.
The IEC model emphasizes contractor-based training, meaning apprentices gain exposure to real production schedules, jobsite expectations, and customer-driven work environments. Graduates complete the educational and work-hour requirements necessary to pursue journeyman electrician certification in the state of Ohio.
Program Length
The apprenticeship is completed over four years and includes a combination of paid on-the-job training and scheduled classroom instruction. Apprentices advance through the program by meeting work-hour requirements, completing coursework, and demonstrating competency at each training level.
Program Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver’s license
- Reliable transportation to job sites and training locations
- Basic math proficiency and problem-solving ability
- Willingness to learn electrical concepts and follow safety procedures
Preferred Skills
- Prior construction or electrical experience, though not required
- OSHA or first-aid certifications are beneficial
- Ability to work carefully, safely, and with attention to detail
Compensation
Apprentices earn hourly wages while training, with starting pay typically ranging from $11.23 to $22.45 per hour, depending on prior experience, employer placement, and skill level. Wage increases occur as apprentices progress through the program and meet training benchmarks.
Location
Apprentices are based in the Cleveland, Ohio area and work on job sites throughout the Northern Ohio region with participating IEC contractor members. Job locations may vary depending on employer assignments and project needs.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
IEC Northern Ohio – Electrical Apprenticeship 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.