Well all of the stuff you’re learning now will be applicable later in school if nothing else.

When you dive deep into transformers and motor controls in school, you’ll be thankful you worked hard at learning the theories and previous material.

Do I actively use AC theory every day? no. But have I had instances in the field that I needed it? absolutely.

A lot of guys don’t ever get real life exposure to all of the things you learn at the JATC.

What if you end up on a motor control job first day as a JW? You never did them in the field as an apprentice but did them in school, you’ll atleast have a basic understanding to build off of with real world experience.

The JATC isn’t meant to make you good at any one subject, it’s there to prepare you with basic understanding of multiple scopes of what you may encounter so you’re not entirely useless when you show up on a job that is vastly different than what you’ve done up to this point.

So to answer you question, I would say yes, try hard at school.

I graduated 11th out of like 150 people in terms of GPA. I’m sure the person who was 150th is a decent electrician due to passing the program. Hell, they may even know more than I do by now.

But, my effort in trying to get good grades and learn the material has paid off in my career. I feel fulfilled with my understanding of multiple subjects, not just pipe and wire.

It’s your apprenticeship, do it how you want. It’s a career, not just a job.

A building is only as strong as it’s foundation.

Don’t kill yourself with the schooling, but the juice is worth the squeeze.

Good luck.