Having a rough go of it? Welcome to my life! wink

First off, it sounds like you're not in an actual apprenticeship program. That should be one of your top priorities. These programs have very limited times when you can actually apply, so you better do your legwork NOW.

In the meantime ... check out this link, starting at page 24: http://ptgmedia.pearsoncmg.com/imprint_downloads/nccer/pdfs/Electrical.pdf
The four books, representing the four years of the apprenticeship program, are what your training needs to cover.

Book learning isn't enough; you need to make it a point to seek out various employers who work the different aspects of the trade.

Your second goal is to learn the basics of several other building trades. You need to know how to patch a roof, patch a hole in a wall, do a little painting and texturing, dig a trench without destroying the lawn, simple concrete finishing, etc. You'll want to know a little about HVAC and pumps.

It's a construction trade, after all, so you'll need to know how to cut and drill concrete; cut, bend, and tap metal; how to hang things on various surfaces.

Looking at the job ads, you'll often see someone asking for an electrician with additional skills: boilers, electronics, instrumentation, welding, EPA license, etc.

Certifications you should look to have on your resume include an EPA "universal" license, asbestos abatement, lead abatement, and the 10hr. OSHA certificate.

Industrial maintenance work is perfectly honorable, and can be a very good place to learn about motors and controls. Property / apartment maintenance can be a good place to learn about the ways buildings have been made in the past.