Pacific Northwest’s Premier Merit Shop Electrical Program
Start Your Future in the Electrical Trade
Area 1 Inside Electrical JATC helps apprentices build real careers through hands-on training, classroom instruction, and employer partnerships across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
A program built on excellence:
Since 1978
Established Program
Classes 1/week
Flexible schedule
7-state reciprocity
Your license goes further
Application Announcement now available!
Applications for 2026 will be open from:
February 16th, 2026 - October 29th, 2026
Find your path
into the trade
Whether you're just exploring, already enrolled, or running a shop — here's where to start.
Future Apprentice
Learn about the application process, requirements, deadlines, and what to expect as you start your path into the electrical trade.
Current Apprentice
Access important information, schedules, forms, and student resources to stay on track throughout your program.
Electrical Contractor
Become a training agent, hire apprentices, and partner with Area 1 to build a skilled electrical workforce.
A trusted path into the electrical trade
Area 1 Inside Electrical JATC is the premier electrical apprenticeship and training program in the Pacific Northwest. We prepare apprentices for long-term careers through structured training, real jobsite experience, and support from experienced industry professionals.
With two campuses, a large network of training agents, and a nationally accredited curriculum, we help apprentices move from interest to opportunity with a clear path forward.
4 Yrs
Paid Apprenticeship
7 State
License Reciprocity
Why apprentices choose Area 1 JATC
A strong apprenticeship starts with the right training program.
In house electrician instructors
Learn from working electrical professionals who teach on-site — not outsourced to community colleges.
All inclusive tuition
Books and lab fees included, with college credit opportunities available.
Two convenient campuses
Portland and Vancouver locations so apprentices can train closer to where they live and work.
One of the largest contractor network in the PNW
More training agents throughout the region than any other merit shop program in the region.
Above average pass rate
Our first-time test takers achieve higher pass rates than the state average.
Dual licensing, multi-state reciprocity
Graduate with Oregon and Washington licenses. Oregon’s license is reciprocal in seven additional states.
Student Testimonials
★★★★★
“I recently completed my apprenticeship and journeyed out through the Portland campus, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the experience. The program was well-structured from start to finish—each year built on the last in a way that kept me challenged but also gave me the skills and confidence to succeed in the field.”
Andrey L. | Google Review
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the questions we hear most. Still have questions? Talk to our team.
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There is no application fee.
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The starting wage is $21.54 per hour (January 2026). You’ll receive regular wage increases as you progress.
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In person at our Portland campus (6915 NE 42nd Ave) on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00am–3:30pm during open periods.
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One evening per week, 5–9pm, at Portland or Vancouver campus. School year runs September through June.
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Minimum four years — 8,000 on-the-job hours and 576 classroom hours. Then you take the journeyman exam.
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Only one time a ranking session.
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No. All applicants go through the standard ranking process regardless of employer interest.
GET IN TOUCH
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re exploring a career in the electrical trade, already part of the program, or interested in becoming a training agent — we’re here to help.
(503) 459-4056