Electrical apprenticeship program offers career path without college debt

Applications open for aspiring electricians

We’re taking you inside a career path that powers just about everything. From streetlights to stadiums, none of it runs without electricity.

In a multipurpose room at the Metro Detroit Electrical Industry Training Center, the future is wired and ready.

Julian Johnson, a fourth-year apprentice with IBEW Local 58, didn’t start in the trades; he graduated from Michigan State University and initially worked in environmental testing. However, he soon realized it wasn’t the right fit for him.

“I saw electricians out in the field, asked how they got started, and they pointed me to Local 58,” Johnson said.

Throughout his apprenticeship, Johnson has worked in various settings, including auto plants and data centers. He even helped bring life back to the iconic Ford Book Depository building in Corktown.

Joe Scott, the training director at the center, emphasized that this apprenticeship is not just about technical skills; it’s about building a career.

“You need at least one year of high school, one year of algebra, a

The program lasts five years, allowing apprentices to earn while they learn -- starting at about $22 per hour and rising to more than $50 per hour by graduation.

“There is a cost to the program, but it’s subsidized and affordable. You’re working and earning the whole time,” Scott said.

For Julian, it’s more than just a paycheck. It’s about setting an example for his family and plugging into a future he can be proud of.

If you’re ready to spark a new career without the weight of college debt, this program could be the jolt you need. Applications open June 16-20.

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