Who do I contact about non-sexual harassment in the workplace?

I was hired by an electrical contractor as a electrician helper. I was very motivated to learn the trade. I ended up working with one particular guy the most. After a few weeks, he decided that he would not talk to me anymore. We would arrive at a job and he would just disappear without telling me what I was to work on or what we were even there to do. When I asked him questions, he would just mutter inaudibly and walk away. He made it quite clear that he was not going to show me what I needed to know to be successful at my job. I talked to my employer and he told me that this individual had harassed people in this way before, but he was not going to do anything about it, and if I couldn't handle it I should quit. It is very difficult to stay motivated in this situation and a matter of weeks later, I was let go. This is not just a one-time incident and I don't think that it should be allowed to continue.

"I talked to my employer and he told me that this individual had harassed people in this way before, but he was not going to do anything about it, and if I couldn't handle it I should quit."

Get this is writing from the employer then you can go to your state's workforce commission and file a formal complaint. Send your complaint in an e-mail and give the employer time to respond.

Don't take any cr*p but you also must have solid ground on which to fight. Good luck.

file for unemployment they are required to give u a reasonable place to work.

but nothing illegal went on........ just a dolt that doesn't know how to act around people

Most trades accept the fact that they need to help apprentices obtain their licenses. Therefore, their unions support this process of helping "journeyman" tradespeople by encouraging seasoned, and licensed tradesman to help the novices. Your best bet would be to report his behavior to his local electrical union and to the state office as well. When word gets out there that he sabotages the up and coming electricians, he'll be penalized in some way. You should probably also report him and his boss (who wouldn't help you) to the local better business bureau or office of consumer affairs. In the meantime, try to find another contractor who would be willing to help you finish your apprenticeship. Again- call the union and ask for a referral. Good Luck!

Is there anyone higher up than the person who employed you? If so, go to them.

I really don't know who else you could go to.

There are Lawyer's who are Labor Relation Specialists. Might look into that.
Or get with another company. Sounds like you will be a great asset to the right company.
Good Luck!!