IBEW, WCC strengthen workforce partnership with new degree pathways for Electrical Workers

ANN ARBOR, Michigan (May 21, 2026) – Washtenaw Community College (WCC)

and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) announced a new

articulation agreement designed to help electrical workers earn college degrees

while addressing the nation’s growing need for skilled trades professionals.

Through a combination of newly developed online coursework and credit awarded

for prior learning gained through apprenticeship training and professional

experience, IBEW members may earn associate degrees in construction supervision

and journeyman industrial.

The three new pathways were announced today by IBEW Local 252, the Michigan

Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), the Ann Arbor

Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Center (AAEJATC) and college

leadership.

Each summer, approximately 1,300 IBEW members and Joint Apprenticeship and

Training Center staff from across the nation come to WCC’s campus for advanced

training and professional development, making the partnership one of the college’s

most visible and impactful workforce collaborations.

The new agreement provides IBEW members with flexible options to earn degrees

while continuing to work in the field, supporting career advancement opportunities

in an industry experiencing rapid growth nationwide.

“Washtenaw Community College is proud to partner with the IBEW to create

flexible, meaningful educational pathways for working professionals,” said WCC

President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca. “This agreement recognizes the tremendous value of the skills and experience these electrical workers already possess while helping them build additional credentials that can support lifelong career growth. Together,

we are helping meet the workforce demands of Michigan and the nation.”

Industry organizations, including NECA and IBEW, have identified a growing shortage

of skilled electrical workers as demand for infrastructure and energy projects

accelerates nationwide.

“This partnership with Washtenaw Community College creates exciting

opportunities for our members to continue their education while building successful

careers in the electrical industry,” said Chris Parks, Training Director at the AAEJATC. “ Our members already receive world-class technical training through our

apprenticeship programs and continuing education classes, and this agreement

allows that experience to translate directly into college degrees that can open even

more doors professionally and personally.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of electricians is

projected to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than the average for all

occupations — with approximately 81,000 openings projected annually over the

decade. Growth is being driven by increased electrification, infrastructure

modernization, renewable energy expansion, electric vehicle charging systems and

data center construction.

The articulation agreement reflects WCC’s broader commitment to workforce

development and strengthening partnerships that connect education with high-

demand careers across Michigan and beyond.

Electrical workers pursuing their degree at WCC could earn an Associate of Applied

Science in Construction Supervision, Associate of Science in Construction

Supervision or Associate of Applied Science in Journeyman Industrial.