Maine 207 creates IBEW partnership

Maine Township High School District 207 has entered a partnership with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers-National Electrical Contractors Association Technical Institute to help students enter a career as an electrician.

Students at the district's three high schools will be able to earn points toward IBEW's apprenticeship application by earning a "C" grade or better in specific math, science and career technical education classes, officials said. IBEW says it receives about 700 applications for 60 to 100 available apprenticeships each year.

School officials say the new program is part of a broader effort to provide students with career options that match their interests.

"We are excited to partner with IBEW in order to offer our students a competitive edge into the electricians apprenticeship program," said Maine East teacher Melissa Damewood, who helped create the connection with IBEW.