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. Apprentices will have the opportunity to travel and gain hands‑on experience in electrical work and drafting. Throughout the program, they’ll build expertise in VDC technologies and progressively increase 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.

• Learn Electrical System Modeling: proficiency in creating detailed electrical layouts within 3D models, using software such as Revit.
• Understand Electrical Codes and Standards: study relevant codes such as the National Electrical Code to ensure designs comply with regulations.
• Collaborate with Multidisciplinary Teams: work with architects, structural engineers, and mechanical contractors to integrate electrical systems into the overall design.
• Manage Electrical Documentation: create and manage comprehensive electrical documentation, including schematics, wiring diagrams, and specifications.
• Ensure Quality Control: participate in quality assurance processes to validate accuracy and functionality of electrical designs during each project phase.
• By program’s end, apprentices will manage complex electrical systems in VDC environments, ensuring high‑quality construction design and integration.

This phase involves learning VDC technologies, including BIM software like Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks through hands‑on and formal education courses. Apprentices assist in creating and updating models, follow company and project standards, and support team members with drawing coordination. They participate in clash detection and resolve minor design conflicts, observe project meetings, and develop basic skills in reading and interpreting construction documents.

Site and pre‑fabrication experience with electricians provides real‑hands installation knowledge.

At this stage, apprentices take on more responsibility in developing and maintaining detailed 3D models for active projects. They lead small‑scale coordination tasks, manage clash detection, troubleshoot issues, and suggest solutions. They also manage project documentation, keep models current, and help prepare progress reports for stakeholders. Apprentices deepen their understanding of construction practices and VDC applications for specific project types, and experience the complexities of planning and executing electrical layouts that can be constructed effectively.

In the advanced phase, apprentices own large‑scale model coordination, work with senior staff to lead project reviews, and ensure quality control. They mentor new VDC hires, contribute to strategic implementation of new VDC technologies, lead coordination meetings, identify design conflicts, and drive resolutions. Apprentices prepare presentations and reports for internal and external clients, ensuring project designs align with construction schedules and standards.

Additional on‑site leadership experience further develops constructability knowledge.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Enrollment in or completion of a…