What Is It Known For?
IEC Dakotas has been a trusted name in electrical apprenticeship training since 1947. With a network of over 50 electrical contractors spanning nearly 80 locations across five states, it provides hands-on education designed to prepare electricians for real-world challenges. In addition to apprenticeship programs, the organization offers continuing education courses to help professionals stay up to date with industry standards.
Serving North and South Dakota, IEC Dakotas plays a key role in developing skilled electricians for the workforce. While enrollment numbers are not publicly available, its long-standing presence and wide reach suggest a steady flow of students training each year.
Degrees & Certifications
IEC Dakotas offers a range of programs designed to help students advance in their electrical careers. These include:
- Apprentice training program
- Professional Electrician’s Program (PEP)
- Continuing education courses
Class Schedules
IEC Dakotas offers flexible class schedules to accommodate students with different needs. Classes are available in-person, live online, and through traditional online formats. Each year, students must complete a minimum of 144 hours of training, which includes lectures, demonstrations, lab work, and homework.
Live webcam classes are held regularly, allowing students to interact with instructors and classmates. The instructors, hired annually by the Apprenticeship and Training Committee, bring extensive knowledge and commitment to each session. While the program does not include externships or clinical experience, the hands-on training ensures students gain practical skills for their careers.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. IEC Dakotas is a good school to get electrical training. The school is approved in the following states South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Wyoming.
Acceptance Rate
IEC Dakotas does not provide specific information regarding its acceptance rate.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition at IEC Dakotas varies depending on the program and whether you are a member or a non-member. Below is a breakdown of the costs:
- Apprentice Training Program: Members: $1,695 per year and Non-Members: $2,395 per year
- Professional Electrician’s Program (PEP): Members: $3,390 and Non-Members: $5,000
In addition to tuition, students may need to cover the costs of books, registration fees, and CMS registration. Scholarships, ranging from $500 to $1,500, are available to help with these expenses. For more details on tuition and other expenses, reach out to the school directly.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Professional Electrician
Campus Locations
Sioux Falls 102 N. Krohn Place Ste 214 Sioux Falls, SD 57103
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, IEC Dakotas has a limited number of reviews, but the feedback is mixed, with some older praise and an implied recent negative experience.
Overall Score: 4.0/5 Stars
Common Praises
Well-Run Program: The one detailed positive review describes the school as a “well-run electrician training program” and highly recommends it.
Common Criticisms
Implied Poor Experience: A very recent review with no text received a response from the owner apologizing for a “bad experience.” This suggests a potential recent issue that is not detailed in the public reviews.
Momentum
The provided reviews are too limited to determine a clear trend. The positive feedback is from several years ago, while the most recent comment implies dissatisfaction. To get a complete picture, a wider range of reviews would be needed. However, external information clarifies that IEC Dakotas operates a formal electrical apprenticeship program recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor. The program combines 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training with 576 hours of academic instruction over four years. Tuition is significantly lower for apprentices working for member contractors, and in some cases, employers may cover the full cost. The “earn while you learn” model is a key benefit, allowing students to graduate with little to no debt.