Virtual Design Construction Apprenticeship Program

Take Charge of Your Career at Interstates

At Interstates, we don't just show up to work, we show up for each other. From our headquarters in Iowa to job sites across the country, we're doing award-winning electrical, controls, automation, and OT work that powers industrial facilities for clients here in the U.S. and around the world. Whether you're bending conduit, wiring panels, writing code, supporting projects, or helping things run behind the scenes, you'll be part of a crew that works hard, shares laughs, and takes pride in doing quality work. We believe in building strong teams, doing the right thing, and making a difference in the communities where we live. If you want to grow and do meaningful work, you'll feel at home here.


The Virtual Design Construction (VDC) Apprentice program is a structured training pathway designed to develop skilled VDC professionals from entry-level to senior positions. This program emphasizes the importance of drive and character, essential traits for success in a dynamic field. Apprentices will have the unique opportunity to travel and gain hands-on experience in both electrical work and drafting, broadening their skill set and knowledge base. Throughout the program, they will build comprehensive expertise in VDC technologies and processes, progressively increasing their responsibilities. Under the guidance of senior VDC professionals, apprentices will learn to create and manage 3D models, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and ensure quality construction design at every phase. This position requires travel as part of the apprenticeship program.

VDC Apprenticeship Program Highlights:

• Learn Electrical System Modeling: Gain proficiency in creating detailed electrical layouts within 3D models, utilizing software like Revit to integrate electrical designs.
• Understand Electrical Codes and Standards: Study relevant electrical codes, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC), to ensure all designs comply with industry regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with Multidisciplinary Teams: Work alongside architects, structural engineers, and mechanical contractors to incorporate electrical systems Seamlessly into the overall construction design.
• Manage Electrical Documentation: Develop skills in creating and managing comprehensive electrical documentation, including schematics, wiring diagrams, and specifications.
• Ensure Quality Control: Participate in quality assurance processes to validate the accuracy and functionality of electrical designs during each phase of the construction project.
• By the end of the program, apprentices will be equipped with the skills necessary to manage complex electrical systems within VDC environments, ensuring high-quality construction design and integration.

Entry Level (Phase 1) Summary: This phase involves learning the basics of VDC technologies, including BIM software like Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks through hands-on and formal education courses. You will assist in creating and updating models, following company and project standards, and support experienced team members with coordinating project drawings across electrical deliverables. You'll participate in clash detection exercises and help resolve minor design conflicts. Observing project meetings will help you understand construction coordination, and you'll develop basic skills in reading and interpreting construction documents. Time spent on site and in Pre-Fabrication working alongside electricians will provide real hands-on installation experience to advance practical electrical knowledge.

Intermediate Level (Phase 2) Summary: At this stage, you'll take on more responsibility in developing and maintaining detailed 3D models for active projects. You'll lead small-scale coordination tasks, ensuring accuracy across design disciplines. You'll be more involved in clash detection, troubleshooting issues, and suggesting solutions. Additionally, you'll manage project documentation, ensuring models are up-to-date, and assist in preparing progress reports for stakeholders. You'll also deepen your understanding of construction practices and VDC applications for specific project types. Returning to site, you will experience the complexities of planning and executing electrical layouts that can be constructed effectively.

Advanced Level (Phase 3) Summary: At this level, you'll take ownership of large-scale model coordination, working with senior VDC staff to lead project reviews and ensure quality control. You'll mentor new VDC hires, helping them with tasks and learning. You'll also contribute to the strategic implementation of new VDC technologies across projects. Leading coordination meetings, identifying design conflicts, and driving resolutions will be key responsibilities. Additionally, you'll prepare presentations and report out to internal and external clients, ensuring project designs align with construction schedules and standards in collaboration with engineers and project managers. Additional hands-on experience with electrical installation and onsite leadership will be available to further constructability knowledge.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Enrollment in or completion of a technical training program in drafting, CAD, construction management, or a related field preferred.
• Familiarity with BIM software like Revit, AutoCAD, or Navisworks is an advantage but not required.
• Strong interest in learning about construction technology and design processes.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work well in a team environment.
• Ability to manage tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Travel Requirements: This position requires travel as part of the apprenticeship program . The travel will involve semi-permanent relocation, meaning that you may need to move to different locations for extended periods during your training. These relocations are necessary for you to gain hands-on experience in various environments and with different teams.


Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
• Occasionally may require visiting construction sites, which may involve standing, walking, and adhering to safety protocols.

Application End Date: May 30, 2026

Compensation: The entry-level wage for this apprenticeship program is $20.35 per hour. This wage reflects the entry-level pay where you will begin working while acquiring foundational skills and knowledge specific to the trade. Some candidates, depending on previous experience, may start the apprenticeship at a higher level. As you progress through the program, and gain experience, your wage will increase in accordance with our program standards. This wage progression is tied to your growing expertise, completion of required training, and the value you bring to the role as you learn more advanced skills. This structure ensures that as you become more skilled, you are compensated accordingly, reflecting both your increased responsibilities and expertise.

Interstates Describes Its Culture as: Family-Like:

• Caring co-workers treat each other like family
• Be treated like an individual, not just a number
• Flexible schedules allow you to focus on your personal life as well as work-life
• Lunch gatherings and social activities promotes fun and camaraderie
• Support charities and your community through events sponsored and hosted by Interstates

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay so you know you are valued
• 401(k) to help you plan for your future
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance with different options to meet your needs
• Vacation so you can focus on you
• Performance Bonus just in time for holiday shopping
• Established Career Paths to help plan your future
• Career Coaches that are focused on your success

What You Should Know Before You Apply

Interstates may collect personal information as part of your job application, such as your contact details, work history, education, and any information you provide. This information is used only for recruitment, to evaluate your candidacy, and to meet legal requirements. For details about our privacy practices and your rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), please see our Privacy Policy. By applying, you acknowledge that you have reviewed this notice.

Interstates is an EEO provider and offers a drug-free workplace. Employment at Interstates is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without notice or cause, except as otherwise provided by law.