Wrench & WingCareer Change to Electrician: JATC Apprenticeship vs Trade School
Updated · Written and reviewed by the Wrench & Wing editorial team
- JATC apprenticeships are earn-while-you-learn
- Trade school charges tuition but may help you prepare
- Licensing rules vary by state
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Routes
- JATC (union) apprenticeship: run jointly by IBEW and NECA through the Electrical Training Alliance.
- Non-union apprenticeships: e.g. through contractor associations; see Apprenticeship.gov.
- Trade school: tuition-based; check whether hours count toward your state license.
Licensing is set by each state. Occupation data: BLS Occupational Outlook: electricians.
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