5-Year Registered Program · Since 1939
Inside / Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship
The backbone of every building — and the standard of the trade. Inside wiremen are the most highly trained and versatile electricians in construction.
The Trade
The Most Comprehensive Credential In The Trade
Inside wiremen power the buildings where people work, heal, learn and gather — from office towers and manufacturing plants to hospitals, schools, sports facilities and data centers. If it has a panel, a conduit run, a motor control center or a high-voltage distribution system, an inside wireman built it.
This is complex, skilled work that demands both technical knowledge and physical capability. Inside wiremen read blueprints, install complete electrical systems from the ground up, and troubleshoot sophisticated industrial equipment across every sector of construction.
As infrastructure investment grows, energy demands rise and electrification accelerates, demand for qualified inside wiremen has never been stronger.
On The Job
What Inside Wiremen Install, Service & Maintain
- Complete electrical distribution systems in commercial and industrial buildings
- Service entrances, switchgear, transformers and panelboards
- Branch circuit wiring for lighting, power and equipment
- Motor controls, variable frequency drives (VFDs) and PLCs
- Conduit systems — rigid, EMT, PVC and flexible
- Fire alarm and life-safety systems
- Lighting control and energy management systems
- Generators, transfer switches and emergency power
- Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and battery storage
- Electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure
- Data center and critical facility power systems
- Healthcare, industrial and institutional systems
Program Details
The TEJATC Inside / Commercial Apprenticeship
TEJATC has trained inside wiremen since its founding in 1939 — one of the first registered apprenticeship programs in Ohio. This five-year program earns you the nationally recognized Journeyman Inside Wireman (JIW) credential.
Apprentice Wage Progression
Your Pay Rises At Every Period
The Inside/Commercial apprenticeship advances through ten periods. You receive a raise at each one as your documented skills grow.
| Period | % of journeyman scale |
|---|---|
| Period 1 | — |
| Period 2 | — |
| Period 3 | — |
| Period 4 | — |
| Period 5 | — |
| Period 6 | — |
| Period 7 | — |
| Period 8 | — |
| Period 9 | — |
| Period 10 | — |
Apprentices receive a pay increase at each program period. Percentages shown are of the current journeyman scale; current-cycle hourly dollar rates are available from the TEJATC office at 419-666-8088. All fringe benefits except pension are paid at the same rate as journeymen.
Notice Of Apprenticeship Opportunity
Minimum Requirements To Apply
To be eligible for the TEJATC Telecommunications (VDV) Apprenticeship, applicants must meet all of the following.
- Be at least 17 years of age
- Be a high school graduate or hold a GED
- Have completed one (1) credit of high school algebra
- Submit a copy of your birth certificate and official transcripts within 60 days
- DD-214 if you are a veteran seeking consideration for military training
- $20 processing fee — check, money order, Mastercard or Visa (no cash)
Program Selection Policy
Once you are selected and accept placement into any TEJATC program, your name is removed from all other selection lists. This protects the continuity of each program and the investment TEJATC makes in every apprentice. Effective Aug. 11, 2020.
Equal Opportunity
Recruitment, selection, employment and training are conducted without discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex or age. TEJATC operates in full compliance with Title 29 CFR Part 30 and Ohio EEO regulations.
Physical Demands
Climbing ladders, scaffolds and lifts; crawling, crouching and working in confined spaces; lifting 25–50 lb regularly; using hand and power-assisted tools. Be prepared for active, physical work in the field
Getting Started
How To Apply
Applications are by appointment only. Choose one of the two ways to schedule your application appointment below.
Option 1
Schedule Online
Book your appointment any time using our online calendar — no phone call required.
Option 2
Call The Office
Call the TEJATC office during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Feeling Unwell For Your Appointment?
If you have an appointment scheduled and are not feeling well on the day of your appointment, please reschedule by calling 419-666-8088 before your scheduled time. Do not come in if you are ill.
Ready When You Are
Ready To Build A Career As An Inside Wireman?
Commercial and industrial electrical work is the most technically demanding — and most rewarding — path in the trade. TEJATC is where inside wiremen in northwest Ohio earn their credentials, build their skills, and launch careers that last a lifetime. Call today to schedule your application appointment and take the first step toward a union career with real wages, real benefits and a real future.