INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD
OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS
LOCAL 13
Southeast Iowa Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee
The science of electricity is constantly changing and expanding at an ever-increasing rate. From its inception, the electrical industry has kept pace with new technologies and is now one of the largest industries in the United States. This rapid expansion means that the electrical apprentice must be given sound basic training in the knowledge of the occupation, supplemented by sufficient instruction in the theories of electrical science.
The electrical occupation is unique in that it is mechanical, technical, and professional. In order to meet industry demands in an ever-evolving technological environment, the electrical industry must select individuals who have the aptitude to learn and develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to proficiently perform the individual job tasks associated with the work processes of the occupation. The industry must select and train individuals who will diligently work and study to stay abreast of current and future emerging technologies.
The electrical industry, by its very nature, places a high degree of personal responsibility on each individual. While supervision is most often provided on the job, the electrical worker is constantly called upon to make decisions concerning proper performance methodology.
Today’s electrical installations are very complex and highly sophisticated. Faulty installations often prove to be extremely expensive and hazardous. Much of the complex wiring involved in the work is hidden from view when the job is completed; any defect in this hidden work can cause serious damage and prove to be extremely costly. The well-trained electrical worker takes pride in the appearance of their work, and in its technical correctness and structural soundness.
The Southeast Iowa Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee was formed under the local Collective Bargaining Agreement by Local 13 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and the Southeast Iowa and Ottumwa chapters of the National Electrical Contractors Association. The local union, both local chapters, and the JATC have dedicated their time to develop an efficient training program so the apprentice can, through a systematic program of schooling and on-the-job training, become a well-qualified electrical worker.
Quality training remains a high priority with both the IBEW and NECA. That is the reason that the Southeast Iowa Electrical JATC has adopted and promoted nationally developed Apprenticeship Standards and curriculum to ensure quality apprenticeship and training for the industry in the best interest of the apprentice, management, labor, the customer, and the public.