i think in NC it was 4 years but some places it’s 5. you go to classes once a week for several hours and work full time as an apprentice. i started at 16/hr and you get fairly consistent raises. when you finish the apprenticeship and get your journeyman’s you’re making around 30/hr and already have a job.
i think it’s a great setup and was really easy to get into. just had to apply and pass a basic algebra and reading test.