Frequently Asked Questions

An applicant's place on the Ranking List changes all the time. As applicants are taken off the list (to be indentured or who are no longer interested), all those below are advanced up the list. As new applicants are interviewed, their names and average scores are slotted onto the list as well. Each applicant will remain on the list for one year or until they are placed or indicate they are no longer interested.

When we determine the need to start additional apprentice(s), we notify the top applicant(s), as needed per work demand. The top applicant(s) are given the time, date and location for the orientation (boot camp) class, held at our training facility in Indianola, IA. After successful completion of the orientation class, the applicant will be indentured and assigned to an employer to begin their on-the-job training.  If any portion of the orientation week is not successfully passed, the applicant will be sent home and can reapply in 6 months.

An indenture is a contract obligating one party to work for another for a designated period of time. The day an applicant starts their orientation will become his/ her indenture (start) date upon successful completion. This indenture date will be used when registering the apprentice with the United States Department of Labor.

Apprentices do not decide who they go to work for. Each apprentice is assigned to their jobs, which can be anywhere in our 7 state jurisdiction. In order to obtain the diversity in all types of training, most apprentices will get to work for more than one contractor during their apprenticeship.

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*Apprentices may not refuse a job call.

Yes. If you become laid off and are eligible to work, you may qualify for unemployment. See your specific state for guidelines. As an apprentice, while you are in class, you may not be eligible for unemployment. See your specific state for guidelines.

The vehicles driven in the trade require a class A CDL with airbrakes and manual transmission. Examples of vehicles driven include bucket trucks, digger trucks, cranes, and tractor trailers.

Retirement amounts depend upon the CBA (union contract) that individuals are working under. 

Outside electrical construction, the type of construction that Missouri Valley teaches, is the building and maintenance of electrical systems. Outside electrical industry covers from the powerplant to the customer's meter on the side of their house.

Yes, travel is involved anywhere within our seven state jurisdiction. It is required. All travel expenses are out-of-pocket expenses paid by the apprentice.