This is an all too common issue.
There has been a major shortage of fresh entries into the trade for many years now. (all skilled trades really)
And honestly, if I had to start over again, the way I had to when I was young, (particularly becoming an apprentice in a non union shop again), I wouldn't do it, I would change occupations. Looking back I still can't believe we were able to survive and provide for our families as bad as our wages, benefits, and work conditions were. IT SUCKED! And we worked for one of the largest, and busiest contractor in Central Ohio. And we did big jobs too.
And breaking in unskilled newbies isn't without risk in the electrical trade.
It's kind of funny, but my youngest son is a 10+ year Journeyman electrician, and I worry about him getting hurt on the job more now than I ever did before. But I've been at it for 35 years now, and have seen a lot.
A local contractor had an employee fatality, a married 24yr old, earlier this Spring. Electrocuted.
Our local Vocational school gets many entries into the electricity program but most drop out and go back to their home schools. Very few finish the two year programs. Sad part is that they have jobs waiting for them if they do graduate. They are ushered right into the apprenticeship. But none want it?
Recently watching Nightly Business Report, a news person reporting on the drop in housing sales and starts in June. It wasn't due to lack of sales, but a shortage of skilled contractor help to build the new homes.
Upon further questioning it was actually revealed that it wasn't actually a shortage of skilled tradesman, but a shortage of "Skilled Mexican immigrant- tradesmen". Shortage primarily due to excessive deportation. The builders want to pay immigrant wages for their Carpenters, Electricians, Plumbers etc.
Sad situation.