The Washington, DC construction industry has added 120 new highly-skilled electricians to its roster. Saturday, June 7th marked the 68th annual graduation ceremony for the Washington, DC, Joint Electrical Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) where graduates received their diplomas and became Journeyman Electricians after completing up to five years of rigorous training.
The JATC’s larger apprenticeship program, the Inside Wireman, requires each apprentice to receive a minimum of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training in the electrical construction industry with the supervision of a journeyman electrician along with 800 hours of classroom training. Each year they transfer to a new contractor to learn new skills and gain experience on real projects. The JATC also offers a 3- and 4-year program, which also take place at the facility in Lanham, Maryland.
The graduates chose from a selection of classes on topics ranging from fiber optics, fire alarms, high voltage cable splicing, alternative energy and many more. But before even beginning their training the apprentices participated in an intense application and interview process with a panel of interviewers and lot of competition. Typically only 10% of applicants are accepted into the program. Applicants must prove they have strong interest and ability in math and science.
This program is unique in that it creates experienced, qualified and highly skilled workers, who are committed to the industry. Matthew Grady, this year’s valedictorian, graduated with the highest marks in his class and perfect attendance during the five-year program.
“JATC doesn’t just teach the skills necessary to become an electrician, it prepares its graduates to build the region’s buildings of tomorrow and instills a commitment to safe and high-quality work,” said David McCord, JATC apprenticeship training director.
Graduates were joined by family, friends, teachers and even future employers as they crossed the stage to receive their diplomas. To learn more about the JATC Electrical Apprenticeship program, visit www.getchargedup.org.
