HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) — Virginia Peninsula Community College is introducing a new program to train electricians.

The school is partnering with Independent Electrical Contractors Chesapeake (IECC) to offer a four-year apprenticeship program that will lead to an accredited journey worker’s license for electricians.

Apprentices will work full-time and attend classes two nights a week to complete the 8,000 hours of on-the-job and classroom training required for the license.

Upon completion of the program, students will earn credentials recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor.

“VPCC is truly excited to partner with Independent Electrical Contractors Chesapeake to support electrical apprenticeships on the Virginia Peninsula,” said Todd Estes, vice president for Workforce Development and Innovation at the College. “We have no doubt this effort will benefit our community by creating clear pathways for those seeking exciting careers and benefit local employer partners by providing the support they need to develop their future workforce.”

The program, set to begin in late 2024 or early 2025, is supported by a federal grant the Hampton Roads Workforce Council received from the Department of Labor.

An open house is planned for Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Peninsula Workforce Development Center, 600 Butler Farm Rd. in Hampton.

To learn more about the program visit www.vpcc.edu.