The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of the Carolinas helped 13 electrical apprentice graduates celebrate their achievements by hosting them in June at Charlotte’s BB&T Ballpark for a Charlotte Knights game.
The graduates were recognized during pre-game festivities, walking onto the field with T-shirts imprinted with the slogan: The Other 4-Year Degree”.
“ABC Carolinas Chapter is the premier construction association representing the commercial/industrial construction industry,” the ballpark announcer said. “ABC members build the hospitals, churches, schools, office buildings – and even this amazing ballpark – where we live, work and play in the Carolinas. ABC Carolinas Chapter is investing in the future of the construction industry and is proud to introduce the Electrical Apprenticeship Graduation Class of 2018. Please welcome the future of the construction industry.”
Valedictorian Jeff Klutzz of Eldeco was invited to throw out the first pitch. Groundbreak Carolinas reported.
In the program, apprentices work full time during the day and attend classes two nights per week. They learn about the use and care of tools, conduit, switchboards, wiring devices, lighting fixtures, motors and controls and general electrical work. The classroom training applies standardized cirriculum from the National Center for Construction and Education Research (NCCER) and lasts four years.
Jeff Morris, the ABC Carolinas Chapter director of workforce development, was quited as saying that overall enrolment increased by 57 percent compared to the previous year.
“Congratulations to all of the 2018 graduates. We applaud your hard work, dedication and achievements,” Morris said. “As you embark on this new beginning, we encourage you to make a difference in someone else’s life by sharing your knowledge. It’s a remarkable accomplishment to complete this program. We wish you continued success in your careers,” said Morris.
Graduates are: Jose Cano – Howard Brother Electric; Chad Efrid – Gowdy Electric; Steven Hofmann – Watson Electrical Construction Company; Brandon Hunter – Starr Electric Company; Joshua Jenkins; Tyson Keenan; Jeff Klutzz, Valedictorian – Eldeco; Christopher Pavelek – Watson Electrical Construction Company; Christopher Pressley – Starr Electric Company; O’Bryant Ralph – WB Moore; Auturo Vizcarra Santiago – Hardhat Workforce Solutions; James Thornton – Watson Electric Company; and David Vargus – Gaylor Electric.