Accelerating Electrical Apprenticeship: The IBEW 103 Training Center Increases Opportunities for a New Generation

In Massachusetts, clean energy is becoming a larger part of the public consciousness, creating a demand for skilled professionals to fill jobs in the electric industry. To meet this need, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) 103 has just finished renovating its Joint Apprentice Training Center (JATC) located in Dorchester. The state-of-the-art facility now provides advanced training and opportunities for the next generation of electricians.

Discover the Innovative Opportunities Electricians Have at the IBEW 103 Training Center

The IBEW 103 has taken significant steps to meet growing demand for electricians across Massachusetts. Through extensive renovations of the JATC, the center now provides triple the amount of hands-on training space, allowing for increased accessibility and a more thorough understand of electrical work.

Electricians Have Access to State-of-the-Art Technology

The JATC features state-of-the-art technology that allows apprentices to train and learn about the different areas of electrical work. IBEW 103 business manager Lou Antonellis told WBZ-TV, “We’re training folks to install solar, we’re training folks to install EV chargers and how to work on wind turbines.” Apprentices learn about the various aspects of electric work while earning a wage.

The Benefits of Becoming an Apprentice

In the 5-year program, apprentices not only learn from teachers in the facility, who are electricians working in the field, but also from each other. Kristie Welch, an apprentice at IBEW 103 said, “The teachers are great. They take their time to make sure that everybody understands what’s going on and then in class too, the students help each other. You get to learn so much, you get to work with so many people. Everybody has been extremely nice and so willing to teach.”

The JATC aims to reduce barriers for aspiring electricians and to increase excellence in the industry. On completing the program and passing the exam, everyone graduates with a state license. Welch adds, “Being an apprentice is like starting over anew.”

A Place to Train Electricians: How IBEW 103 is Working to Boost Excellence in the Electrical Industry
With the increased importance placed on clean energy, the Joint Apprentice Training Center at the IBEW 103 in Dorchester has expanded and upgraded to serve prospective and current electricians. The new facility exposes apprentices to the most advanced technology and provides guidance from teachers and fellow apprentices alike. Everyone who graduates from the center receives a state license to start working, allowing electricians to thrive in a secure career.