During the competition, the apprentices demonstrate their skills in the following areas:

• A written exam to evaluate their knowledge of electrical theory, code, materials, and installation practices.
• Preparation of a motor logic diagram based on a written description of a field application.
• Bending electrical metallic tubing.
• Troubleshooting by accurately diagnosing a fault in a common piece of electrical equipment.
• Demonstrate their jobsite productivity by participating in a speed exercise in which they install common electrical circuitry.
• Accurately installing electrical distribution and control circuitry utilizing customer-supplied materials, circuit descriptions, specification, and control diagrams.
• Demonstrating their knowledge of safe work practices.

The competition is judged by teams of journeymen, contractors, inspectors, and others actively involved in electrical industry codes and standards, safety, and training.

Competition winners receive awards recognizing their accomplishments, cash prizes, a selection of tools and reference materials provided by the competition sponsors, and national recognition.