The JATC residential training program runs parallel to the apprenticeship program. A trainee may be accepted into apprenticeship and an apprentice may request placement back into the residential program. Many apprentices get their start in the Residential program, because they want to experience the electrical industry while in the process of applying for apprenticeship. The residential trainee program is a good way to start your electrical career, learn skills and advance in pay even if you are not selected for apprenticeship right away.
Similar to apprenticeship, the residential program is designed to be completed in five years. Trainees receive regular increases in pay, they perform similar tasks to other classifications on the same job sites, and they are required to take classes. Unlike apprentices, trainees do not need to pass an aptitude test, do not interview, are not selected off a ranked list, work off their own pay scale and take classes at night instead of during the day. Trainees finish the program with a Residential Electrician classification, different from an apprentice who will be classified as a Journeyman.
Residential trainees complete the program with 10,000 hours on the job training under the supervision of a qualified journeyman electrician. All job placements are made by the Washington D.C. Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee and individuals work with contractors who are signatory to Local Union 26. All trainees are required to complete eight modules, 10 classes, over the course of the five years. Please see the schedule below for the wages and requirements of these modules. It is the responsibility of all trainees to understand the reclassification requirements associate with the program. Reference JATC Residential Night Classes for more information on night class training requirements.
Individuals in this program will receive pay increases during the course of the program based on work hours, time spent at that pay level, and successful completion of modules. For a detailed look at the residential trainee program laid out in advancement steps please see the document below, Path from RTP to Residential Wireman.
Step 1. Create a TradeSchool account. Use https://secure.tradeschoolinc.com/v5/jatc26-org/login/index.php to visit the TradeSchool login page. Click on “create account”, complete the email and password fields. You will receive an email from messaging@secure.tradeschoolinc.com, it may go to your spam folder. Open the email and click on the TradeSchool link. This will allow you to enter your account information and submit it for approval. If you are not a member of Local 26 leave the member # field blank. If you do not hold a classification from Local 26 then please select “unclassified”. (Approval may take several days) Upon receiving your acceptance email from TradeSchool you will be able to login and start your online application.
Step 2. Login to TradeSchool using your email and the password you created, in step one. Click on the application tab to begin the application process. Then select the program your applying for, from the drop down menu. (Residential Trainee Metro Area or Residential Trainee Roanoke Area)
Step 3. After you submit your application, please click here to contact Roy Reeves (referrals@jatc26.org), to receive an available to work number, via email. Also provide us your Full name, Last 4 digits of Social Security Number, and your Phone number, be sure to request a available for work number as a Residential Trainee. If you have any previous construction experience, please contact and Organizer at the IBEW. Go to this link, IBEW LOCAL 26 TRADESMAN INFORMATION FORM (jotform.com) and fill out their Electrical Tradesman Form. An Organizer will contact you.
Step 4. Read the Residential Statement of Policies so you are familiar with the program requirements.
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