Below are the most frequently asked questions that applicants have about the American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training (ALBAT) program.
Communication for applicants is sent via email from TQRecruit. Please always check your inbox and ‘Spam Folder’ so you do not miss correspondence for our program. You may receive communication from applicant@albat.org as well.
How do I apply for the ALBAT program?
Our applications are completed online, and can be found Here!
What documents do I need to turn in?
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) A License or Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) A Permit and driver’s license, proof of high school graduate or have a Certificate of High School Equivalency or GED or have a two-year Associate Degree (or its equivalent) or higher and resume or work history.
Do I have to have a CDL A license to apply?
A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) A License or Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) A Permit must be valid at the time of application and interview.
How much does the schooling cost?
There is no tuition cost to receive training through the ALBAT registered apprenticeship program.
There is a Scholarship Loan Agreement, which states that you will pay back the amount of training cost if you get terminated from the program or do not complete the in-kind credits after completion of the American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training (ALBAT) program.
How long before I get scheduled for Aptitude Test?
Applicants are scheduled for Aptitude Test prior to being interviewed. Each area of the ALBAT Program schedules differently. You may be scheduled the morning of your scheduled interview; the day before your scheduled interview; one month or more in advance of when you will be scheduled for interview. Aptitude Test notification is emailed to you within two to four weeks prior to the Aptitude Test date.
How long before I get an interview?
Applicants are interviewed by the American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training Committee program within one year of applying. Depending on the IBEW Local Union area you have an application with, you may be interviewed earlier than one year. You will receive interview notification via email within three to four weeks prior to the interview date.
How does my ranking number change?
The ALBAT Ranking (Standby) List is a “live” list that can fluctuate, as applicants are added (interviews) or removed (indentured or one year after being interviewed).
How long can I be on the ALBAT Ranking (Standby) List?
Applicants can stay on the ALBAT Standby List for one year. If you have not been selected within one year, your application will become invalid.
Can I be re-interviewed if I do not like where I was placed on the ALBAT Ranking List?
Following your interview from American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training Committee, if you are placed on the ALBAT Ranking (Standby) List and you are not satisfied with your placement, you can request to be re-interviewed if you have gained at least 450 hours of documented work experience in the electrical line construction industry or have successfully completed two or more post-secondary, industry related classes. Examples of related classes include: Algebra I and II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Advanced Math, Physical Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, Industrial Arts, Mechanical Drawing/Drafting, Computer Literacy/Programming, Related Vocational/Technical Courses. The re-interview application must be completed after a minimum of 90-days from your interview date and has to be submitted to the ALBAT office.
How long is the apprenticeship?
The length is approximately 3 to 3 ½ years, but we track the progress by number of on-the-job training hours.
For the American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training Line, Substation and Cable Splicer Apprenticeships, the requirement is 7,000 hours of on-the-job training.
For the American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training Transmission and Underground Residential Distribution (URD) Apprenticeships, the requirement is 4,000 hours of on-the-job training.
For the American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training Traffic Signal Apprenticeship, the requirement is 6,000 hours of on-the-job training.
How much money does an apprentice make?
The rate an apprentice will start at depends on the Local Union’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that the apprentice will be working under. Apprentices advance approximately every six months to the next pay level until the full training has been completed. At that time, Journeyman pay rate will be earned, based on the Local Union for whom you are working.
Are there any benefits included during the apprenticeship?
While you are in the American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training (ALBAT) Apprenticeship Program, Apprentices receive health insurance and retirement benefits that correlate to the industry standard.
