Electrician in a yellow helmet repairing colorful wiring inside an electrical panel with circuit breakers.

Electrician

Becoming a Union Electrician in Atlanta; Inside the Pay, Benefits, and Protection of IBEW 613

Becoming a Union Electrician in Atlanta; Inside the Pay, Benefits, and Protection of IBEW 613

Electrician in safety gear working with wiring inside an industrial electrical panel at a construction site.

Become an Electrician in Georgia

IBEW Local 613 Apprenticeship & Careers

Electricians build and maintain the electrical systems that power homes, hospitals, factories, schools, and data centers. In Georgia, many electricians start their careers through a union apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 613 in Atlanta.

If you enjoy problem solving, working with your hands, and building things that people rely on every day, becoming an electrician can provide a stable, high-paying career without student debt.


What Electricians Do

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems that deliver power safely and efficiently.

Their work includes:

• Installing wiring in buildings
• Connecting electrical panels and circuit breakers
• Installing lighting systems
• Running conduit and cable
• Troubleshooting electrical problems
• Installing power for equipment and machinery
• Working on renewable energy systems like solar

Electricians must understand electrical theory, safety procedures, and the National Electrical Code.


Where Electricians Work

Electricians work on a wide range of construction projects across Georgia, including:

• Commercial buildings
• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Schools and universities
• Airports
• Data centers
• Manufacturing plants
• Stadiums and arenas
• Power infrastructure projects

Most electricians work on active construction sites, but some specialize in maintenance and service work after buildings are completed.


Example Projects Electricians Work On

Electricians in Georgia help build and maintain projects like:

• Atlanta-area hospitals and medical centers
• Data centers supporting major technology companies
• Airport expansions and transportation projects
• Large commercial office buildings
• Manufacturing plants and industrial facilities
• Schools and universities

Electricians are involved in nearly every modern construction project, making this one of the most in-demand skilled trades.


Electrician Apprenticeship Program

Most union electricians begin their career through a registered apprenticeship program.

The IBEW Local 613 / Atlanta Electrical JATC apprenticeship combines:

• Paid on-the-job training
• Classroom instruction
• Hands-on skills training

Apprentices earn a wage while they learn and receive regular raises as they gain experience.


How Long the Apprenticeship Takes

Electrician apprenticeship programs typically last:

5 years

During that time apprentices complete:

8,000 hours of on-the-job training
900 hours of classroom education

Training covers:

• Electrical theory
• Blueprint reading
• Safety standards
• Motor controls
• Programmable controls
• Electrical code

After completing the program, apprentices become journeyman electricians.


Local Union for Electricians in Atlanta

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 613

IBEW Local 613 represents thousands of electricians working across the Atlanta region and much of North Georgia.

The union helps members access:

• Apprenticeship training
• Health insurance
• Retirement benefits
• Job opportunities
• Ongoing skills training


How To Apply for the Electrician Apprenticeship

To apply for the apprenticeship program, contact the training center:

IBEW Local 613 / Atlanta Electrical JATC

Website
https://www.ibew613.org

Phone
(404) 523-8107

Location
Atlanta, Georgia

Applicants typically need:

• High school diploma or GED
• Algebra coursework
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to pass an aptitude test


Why Choose a Career as an Electrician?

Electricians enjoy a career that offers:

• Strong wages and benefits
• Paid training instead of student debt
• Long-term job stability
• Opportunities to specialize
• Skills that are in high demand

Electricians are essential to modern infrastructure, and demand for skilled electrical workers continues to grow.