The Eugene-Springfield Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) is a registered apprenticeship program recognized by both the U.S. Department of Labor and the Oregon Bureau of Labor & Industries.
Established in 1967, the Eugene-Springfield JATC is firmly grounded in the apprenticeship standards mandated by the State of Oregon. It comprises four reputable providers of electrical services, known as "training agents," including Blachly-Lane Electric Cooperative, Emerald People's Utility District, Lane Electric Cooperative, and Springfield Utility Board, whose seasoned professionals are dedicated to providing comprehensive training to their apprentices. With a mission to uphold high standards of craftsmanship and safety for the betterment of the communities they serve, these dedicated individuals honor the long history and importance of apprenticeships.
Embodying values of craftsmanship, mentorship, and community, the JATC ensures compliance with industry standards while fostering collaboration and growth within the electrical utility trades. This dedication, combined with providing an exceptional apprenticeship program, results in the development of highly skilled journeyworkers, equipped with the expertise to excel in their field upon completion of the program.
The committee is composed of an equal number of four employer and four employee members and meets monthly to conduct business. In addition to its oversight role, the committee is responsible for indenturing new apprentices and closely monitoring their progress. Drawing from recommendations by training agent representatives the committee evaluates apprentice advancement and may decide to promote or "re-rate" them to the next phase, or "step," of their apprenticeship program. Should an apprentice require improvement, the committee has the authority to maintain them at their current step and provide additional training and support to help them succeed.
The committee's structure includes two representatives from each Training Agent— an employer and an employee— each holding voting rights. Additionally, the committee elects a Chairperson and a Secretary, designates alternate members, and appoints a JATC Apprenticeship Coordinator responsible for administrative tasks and support for apprentices, committee members and training agents.