Growing Careers in the Electrical Trade Through IBEW Apprenticeship

From Apprentice to Electrician: Growing Careers with MPS, Rosendin, and IBEW

National Apprenticeship Week is a time to recognize the value of hands-on training and the role apprenticeship plays in building strong careers.

It highlights opportunities that offer real long-term stability, including the ability to earn without taking on student debt, steady pay increases as skills grow, and training in skills that stay in demand. For many, the electrical trade offers a career that cannot be outsourced and continues to provide reliable work for years to come.

Through our partnership with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), we play a part in helping individuals enter the electrical trade and gain the skills, confidence, and experience needed for long term success. We proudly partner with IBEW Local 20, IBEW Local 429, and IBEW Local 716 across our locations.

What an IBEW Apprenticeship Looks Like

An IBEW apprenticeship offers a structured path into the electrical trade. Apprentices earn a paycheck while learning through a combination of classroom instruction and on the job training.

This approach allows apprentices to:

• Build technical and safety skills aligned with industry standards
• Learn directly from experienced journeymen and foremen
• Progress steadily toward journeyman status
• Develop pride in the work they contribute to each day

Apprentices are active members of the crew, gaining responsibility as their skills grow.

Learning with MPS and Rosendin

At MPS and Rosendin, our teams have a heavy focus on quality and safety. Apprentices are encouraged to ask questions while trying new skills and learning from every project.

Many of our leaders began their careers in the field, which shapes how we approach training today. We believe that strong electricians are developed through patience, mentorship, and real experience.

Apprentice Spotlight

Joe F.

Joe entered the IBEW apprenticeship program looking for a stable, fulfilling career in a growing industry.

“I saw that there’s a real need for electricians, and I wanted to do something blue collar,” Joe said. “The apprenticeship stood out because you get hands-on experience in the field and technical learning in the classroom.”

While many people think the trade is only about physical skills, Joe quickly learned that communication and accountability are just as important.

“Good communication makes the work safer and more efficient,” he explained.

“I’ve learned that my work affects the next person, so I try to do everything like my name is on it.”

Joe credits his growth to the support of experienced crew members.

“My foremen and journeymen have always been willing to help,” he said. “no one’s ever made me feel bad for asking questions.”

For those considering the apprenticeship route, Joe offers simple advice:

“Take advantage of everything the program offers and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more you put into it, the more you’ll get out of it.”

Joe sees the electrical trade as a long-term career with lasting value.

“There will always be a need for electricians and people who can work with their hands,” he said. “Technology can’t replace that.”

National Apprenticeship Week is a reminder that careers in the trades have a lot to offer. With strong union partnerships and a commitment to learning, MPS is proud to support the next generation of electricians.

If you are considering a career in the electrical trade, apprenticeship is a powerful place to start and the foundation of a lifelong career.