FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
How long is the program?
Our apprenticeship is five years of on-the-job training, and classroom instruction.
How much does the program cost?
The program is paid for through contractor contributions from the total package of working LU 684 members. Apprentices are required to pay for the textbooks and online classes.
Is the apprenticeship full-time or part-time?
During your apprenticeship, you’ll work full-time while simultaneously fulfilling on-the-job training requirements and participating in related supplemental classroom instruction.
Do I get trained while working?
You get on-the-job training and classroom training for 5 years. You earn while you learn.
How much will I make as an apprentice?
How do I get to advance as an apprentice?
An apprentice advances by completing the required schooling with a passing grade and working the required on-the-job hours.
Do I need experience to start?
No experience is needed. We train you.
Where will I work as an apprentice for Central Valley JATC?
As an apprentice of Central Valley JATC, you will be required to work in our four counties: Stanislaus, Merced, Tuolumne and Mariposa.
When I join the apprenticeship do I become a union member?
Yes, when an applicant becomes an apprentice, they also become a union member of IBEW Local 684.
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
How do I start the application process?
What are the steps of the application process?
Step 1: Complete an application and submit all requirements
Step 2: Pass the Aptitude Test
Step 3: Attend an Oral Interview
Step 4: If selected, attend Orientation
Where and when can I apply?
What if I have electrical construction industry experience?
Individuals who have accumulated a minimum of two thousand (2,000) hours of electrical construction work experience must provide the JATC with the proper documentation that defines their prior experience and must be comprised of official documents such as tax/payroll records or notarized statements. The JATC will examine all documentation submitted before qualification is acknowledged.
What’s next after meeting all minimum requirements?
You will be scheduled to take the aptitude test battery. Once an aptitude test battery date has been established, you will be notified of the time, date, and location via email.
THE APTITUDE
What does the aptitude test consist of?
What if I already tested?
How will I be notified of my test result?
You will receive an email within 2 business days of taking your aptitude test.
What happens after I receive an email stating that I passed the test?
THE INTERVIEW & SELECTION
What happens after I interview?
You will be placed on our applicant pool list.
How long will I be on the rank list?
Your score is valid for one (1) Year. Please keep in mind all ranked applicants may not be selected, and selections are not always made immediately following the interview. Very often, several months may pass before actual selections are made.
Can I interview again?
You may submit a request for an additional interview after ninety (90) days from your previous interview date. You must submit documentation as evidence that you have gained at least 450 hours of electrical construction work experience or successfully completed two (2) or more post-secondary, trade-related classes, which you feel may enhance your chances for possible selection into the apprenticeship program. In order to obtain a re-interview, you must contact the Central Valley JATC and complete an official Applicant Re-Interview Request Form. The JATC shall review such a request to determine if another interview would be warranted based on the information submitted.
What if I don’t have official sealed transcripts?
How will I be notified if I have been selected?
Upon selection, you will be contacted by the phone number we have on file. Please keep your contact information up to date with the Central Valley JATC at all times.
When are new classes brought in?
The needs of the electrical construction industry drive applicant selection. Therefore, registration dates for new apprentices vary.
