Apprenticeship

Earn While You Learn

On-the-Job Technical Experience

The Cleveland Electrical Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (CEJATC) is a nonprofit apprenticeship program that trains individuals for careers in the electrical and telecommunications trades.

Through a registered apprenticeship, you are employed, paid, and trained at the same time. Apprentices work for signatory contractors while attending structured classroom instruction — gaining real-world experience from day one.

This is not a traditional college program. It’s hands-on training built around real jobs, real skills, and long-term careers.

What Does “Earn While You Learn” Mean?

As an apprentice, you are a full-time employee while you train.

You will:

  • Work alongside experienced journeypersons in the field

  • Learn job-site skills through hands-on experience

  • Attend scheduled classroom instruction that supports the work you do

  • Earn a paycheck from your first day on the job

As you progress through the program, your skills increase — and so does your pay.

Education and College Credit

All CEJATC apprentices are concurrently enrolled in an associate-level technical studies program. Apprentices earn college credit while completing their apprenticeship, with the opportunity to apply previous college credits where applicable.

This allows apprentices to gain both industry credentials and academic recognition without taking on traditional college debt.

Telecommunications Apprenticeship

Video • Voice • Data (VDV)

The Telecommunications Apprenticeship focuses on low-voltage systems that support modern buildings and infrastructure.

Telecommunications Installer-Technicians work with systems such as:

  • Data and fiber-optic cabling

  • Voice and communication systems

  • Video, security, and access control

  • Low-voltage control and signaling systems

This work supports commercial, industrial, and residential environments and continues to grow as buildings become more connected and technology-driven.

Nature of the Work

Telecommunications work includes:

  • New construction

  • Renovations and upgrades

  • Maintenance and repair

The trade is technical and detail-oriented. Much of the work is concealed once complete, making proper installation and testing critical. Apprentices are trained to follow all applicable codes and standards while developing sound judgment and professional responsibility.

The work may involve lifting materials, climbing ladders or scaffolding, and working in active job-site environments. Good math and reading skills are important.

Program Length and Structure (Telecommunications)

  • 3-year apprenticeship

  • Divided into 6 training periods

  • Advancement based on:

    • On-the-job training hours

    • Job performance

    • Successful completion of classroom instruction

By completion, apprentices earn:

  • A minimum of 4,800 hours of on-the-job training

  • 480 hours of related classroom instruction

  • A Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship from the State of Ohio

  • Recognition as a Journeyperson Telecommunications Installer-Technician

A comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare and pension, begins once eligibility requirements are met.

Inside Wireman Apprenticeship

Powering Buildings and Infrastructure

The Inside Wireman Apprenticeship is the traditional electrical construction program.

Inside Wiremen install and maintain electrical systems typically 50 volts and higher, including:

  • Power and lighting systems

  • Electrical service and distribution

  • Heating, cooling, and control systems

  • Equipment, machinery, and building infrastructure

This work supports industrial, commercial, and residential projects throughout the region.

Nature of the Work

Inside Wiremen perform a wide range of tasks, including:

  • New construction

  • Remodeling and upgrades

  • Maintenance and repair

The work is hands-on and technical, requiring problem-solving, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety. Much of the work is hidden once complete, making quality workmanship essential.

The trade requires physical effort at times — lifting materials, climbing ladders or scaffolding — as well as strong math and reading skills.

Program Length and Structure (Inside Wireman)

  • 5-year apprenticeship

  • Divided into 10 training periods

  • Advancement based on:

    • On-the-job training hours

    • Job performance

    • Classroom instruction

By completion, apprentices earn:

  • A minimum of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training

  • 720 hours of related classroom instruction

  • A Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship from the State of Ohio

  • Recognition as a Journeyperson Electrician

Apprentices receive scheduled pay increases as they progress through the program. A comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare and pension, begins once eligibility requirements are met.

A Practical Path to a Skilled Career

Both apprenticeship programs are designed for individuals who want:

  • Hands-on training

  • A paid career path from day one

  • Industry-recognized credentials

  • Long-term employment opportunities

Electrical and telecommunications work cannot be outsourced and continues to be essential to modern life.

Interested in Apprenticeship?

Click here to apply for the Inside Wiremen or Telecommunication Apprenticeship