If you are a homeowner, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) can help you save money through rebates and tax credits. Energy-efficient upgrades—from heat pumps to solar panels and more—can reduce energy costs, promote sustainable living, and put money in your pocket. 

Want to learn more about long-term financial savings and maximizing home energy use through the IRA? Read on for all the details.

What is the Inflation Reduction Act? 

According to the Office of Energy and Equity, low-income communities pay 30% of their overall earnings towards energy costs. The Inflation Reduction Act aims to ease some burdens by allocating $8.8 billion to home energy rebate programs. For homeowners in the Pacific Northwest, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of these federal rebates and upgrade your home to be more energy efficient.

How to Take Advantage of the Inflation Reduction Act & Save on Energy Costs

The IRA allows for rebates and tax credits through 2032, which gives homeowners plenty of time to make gather paperwork, complete applications, and schedule necessary upgrades.

Home energy savings through the IRA include Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credits and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates. Participating in specific home improvement projects allows you to receive financial benefits and can help lower your energy costs over time.

Tax Credits vs. Rebates 

There are two ways that homeowners can take advantage of the Inflation Reduction Act: tax credits and rebates. Knowing the difference is crucial to ensure you get the most out of your savings.

• Tax Credits: These credits will be applied when you file your taxes and will reduce the overall amount of taxes due. However, be aware that additional refunds will only be issued if your credits are within the taxes owed.

• Rebates: Rebates are instant savings and offset the purchase of a particular appliance or equipment. Rebates don’t have any impact on taxes.

Electrical Upgrades for Homes

Rebates in Washington and Oregon allow home and property owners the ability to shave upfront costs. 

These are just a few of the many upgrades you can make to start saving money: 

• Heat Pump Installation: Electrical heat pumps require minimal energy to transfer heat from one place to another. Since they don’t generate heat, they are more eco-friendly. They can replace everything from gas-burning furnaces to air conditioners.
• Heat Pump Water Heaters: These types of water heaters can be two to three times more energy efficient than other current types. 
• Electric Stoves: Recently, there has been much discussion about the difference between gas and electric stoves. Older gas stoves have been considered risky due to their benzene and methane emissions. However, beyond that, gas stoves can be half as energy efficient as electric. Switching out a gas stove for an electric one gives homeowners access to rebates. 
• Solar Panels: Rooftop solar panels can promote energy independence and lower electricity bills. The IRA offers tax credits for residential installation. 
• Electrical Panel and Wiring Upgrades: An updated breaker and new wiring can significantly improve residential energy efficiency and support modern appliances. 

Do You Qualify for IRA Rebates & Tax Credits? 

You can receive IRA benefits as long as you are aware of a few rules. New equipment installations must adhere to specific efficiency standards. Check with the IRS to ensure your upgrades meet the criteria or visit Energy.gov for more information and resources to get started.  

Find an Electrical Professional for Your Home Improvements 

The Inflation Reduction Act is an excellent opportunity for homeowners to save money and participate in an energy-efficient future. To ensure you are compliant with all your electrical upgrades and installments, it’s essential to seek out skilled electricians and contractors in your area. 

Are you looking for a local electrician or contractor? Check out our list of top electrical professionals in your area.

Data centers are essential for our digital economy. They house all manner of critical computer systems and store and manage data. The Pacific Northwest is home to 185 data centers and anticipates expanding further. From an electrical professional standpoint, modern data centers in the Pacific Northwest present exciting opportunities. 

Data Centers: Then & Now

Data centers were developed around 1940 but grew with the development of IT in the 1980s. As computer technology and cloud-based services emerged in the 2000s, data centers moved into the large facilities we associate with them today. 

In recent years, data center development has shifted to focus on energy efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, and renewable energy integration. Innovations include water-using glycol cooling technologies and renewable resources for optimized operations to power and cool data centers more sustainably. The future of data centers aims to address both environmental concerns and the increased demand for data processing.

The Future of Data Center Growth in the Pacific Northwest 

According to the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, the Pacific Northwest has gained nearly 4 million new residents since 2000. With this population increase, the electricity demand has also grown especially for electric vehicles, computer chip manufacturing, and data centers. 

Data Center Infrastructure in Oregon & Washington

Across Washington and Oregon, data centers are modernizing and expanding. According to a recent report, the Pacific Northwest region is currently valued at 285.52 megawatts (MW) of power capacity. Over the next five years, this market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.5%. By the end of this period, the total power capacity is projected to reach 979.41 MW. The data center market in the Northwest is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for data processing and storage.

Hillsboro’s Data Center Boom 

Hillsboro is home to fifteen major data centers, with potentially ten more on the horizon. Since 2020, the megawatt (MW) inventory load has increased 334% to an impressive 262.4 MW, making it one of the fastest-growing data centers in the U.S., surpassing large cities such as Chicago and Atlanta as well as the Silicon Valley area.

Opportunities in Rural Washington

Reports show that undeveloped areas in rural Washington provide space for technology heavy-hitters to create data center footprints. For example, Sabey Data Center Quincy spans 530,000 square feet across five purpose-built buildings. Their environmental management team leverages affordable hydropower and natural mechanical systems for maximum efficiency.

The Benefits of Data Center Development for PNW Electrical Professionals

The electricity needed in the Pacific Northwest is anticipated to grow 25% over the next 10 years, largely driven by data centers and semiconductors. The potential growth rate could be unparalleled, leaving data centers searching for electrical professionals trained in the latest sustainable and energy-efficient technology. 

The demand for data center technicians in the Pacific Northwest is on the rise, driven by the region’s growing technology and data center industries. This increase in jobs is fueled by the expansion of data centers, which require skilled technicians to manage and maintain complex systems. Companies are investing heavily in the region, taking advantage of the Pacific Northwest’s robust infrastructure and access to affordable energy sources. As a result, job opportunities for data center technicians are abundant, offering competitive salaries and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology in a rapidly evolving field.

Membership Matters: Take Advantage of Opportunities in a Growing Market

The NECA-IBEW Local 48 partnership provides valuable resources and education for contractors and electricians. NECA provides business owners with technical insights, information on industry best practices, talent recruitment resources, and much more. IBEW supports electricians’ career advancement through education, training, and job placement assistance.

 

Get details on the difference membership makes.

Welcome to this edition of our Member Spotlight, where we celebrate the remarkable contributions of our members to their professions. 

In the vibrant tapestry of IBEW Local 48’s history, few figures stand as tall as Larry Warren. Retiring from his esteemed position in 2017, Larry’s journey within the union spans decades, marked by unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions. 

As a journeyman electrician, foreman,  general foreman, superintendent, and project manager, Larry’s expertise and leadership have left an indelible mark on numerous projects and initiatives. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Larry’s role as a mentor and active member of the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC) embodies the spirit of camaraderie and support that defines the union’s ethos.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the electrical industry?

I used to work in the grocery industry while also taking care of my seven kids. The job had demanding hours, with weekend shifts and split schedules. I needed a change, something with a regular eight-to-five schedule and weekends off so that I could spend more time with my family. One day, I was riding an elevator and  I overheard someone mention the IBEW. I asked them about it, got some information, and after considering it, decided it was the right career move for me.

“I began my career with a local union associated with retail clerks during my time in the grocery industry. Being part of a union has been a constant in my life. It’s a tradition I inherited from my father, who belonged to the steelworkers union. Working within a union environment has always been my preferred choice.”

I clearly recall the day I went for an interview because it was my birthday. This was back in 1987 or 1988. At the time, I was working as an assistant manager at Safeway. I took time off work to attend the interview, so I was dressed in slacks and a tie when I went for the interview. And I remember walking in and they looked at me and like, okay, are you sure you’re coming to the right place for a job? Do you understand what this work is like? 

The job is definitely in the trenches and they wanted to make sure this was something that I wanted to do. I remember telling them that it was my birthday and it would be the best birthday present ever to get into the trade. 

How did you know you had a passion for this kind of work?

When I was in fifth or sixth grade, I attended a class at OMSI focused on electricity. We did experiments with positive charges using DC currents, and I remember feeling a slight shock while holding hands with classmates. I did well in that class, despite not having any prior electrical background. 

After high school, I joined the military as a medic, initially aiming to pursue a career in medicine. However, those plans didn’t pan out. It’s fascinating how I eventually found myself in the electrical trade by taking a ride in an elevator. 

What was your career trajectory like?

So, I started a five-year course to become a journeyman electrician. After completing the course, I worked as a foreman for a while, then moved up to become a general foreman superintendent. 

“I was hired to oversee a $22 million project, which encompassed instrumentation, controls, and network, and also included managing the union fitters under my contract. This was a tightly bid project, requiring someone capable of comprehending the entire scope, and I ensured the project’s success.”

Later, I transitioned to an office role as a project manager. Alongside my career, I also worked for the union as an organizer, helping bring in new members. This gave me a well-rounded perspective—I’ve experienced fieldwork, union operations, and management roles in the office. Understanding all sides of the industry really helped me succeed in the industry.

How did being involved with the EWMC impact your career?

I got involved with the EWMC in the early ‘90s and attended a conference in Atlanta, Georgia. It was there I connected with folks who were all talking about a common issue among minorities in our industry. They often found themselves laid off first when jobs started to wind down. 

We brainstormed solutions and talked about how having representation in decision-making roles could help address this. I made a promise to myself during that conference that I would strive for a leadership position. 

So, when I returned to my job I spoke with the project manager about the situation we were all facing. I just wanted the chance to demonstrate my ability to fulfill the role of a foreman. He was really receptive and supportive but told me that he didn’t have control over the decisions made by the general foreman regarding who was selected.

However, I ended up being the first foreman on the next project and made a deliberate effort to include minorities and women on my crew, earning us the nickname “Tuskegee Wiremen.” I thought it was funny, but in this day and age, people might not take it the same way.

“Don’t be scared to get into a position of responsibility. I would just say, you know, reach for it. Go after it. Don’t cut yourself short.”

Subsequently, I left that job to help out on another project at Kaiser. It was clear that the person in charge of the project wasn’t very capable. I helped out a lot with the drawings and everything and they realized he wasn’t going to work out. So they fired him. But instead of promoting me, they hired someone else. I decided to quit that job and when I got downtown, Ken Jacobs was in the office and asked me about the pink slip I was holding. I explained what happened. He took it seriously. He looked at my pink slip and said “Gimme that.” 

The next thing I knew, I was offered a position running the Nabisco factory project, which I held for about two years before transitioning to Reynolds Metals and eventually becoming a project manager. Actually, I got the opportunity to interview for that position from Ken Jacobs who had taken my pink slip and stopped me from going back to the hall. 

Of course, at that time, I didn’t have any computer skills and I was a little skeptical about accepting the position because I knew you had to do a lot of stuff on computers, like the drawings and a lot of other technical work. But I had a friend named Ricky Brame and he’s been involved with the EWMC for years and still is.

And I remember talking to him on the phone saying that I didn’t know if I could do it. And, you know, he said something that made a lot of sense. He reminded me that I could always return to the field if things didn’t work out. That assurance gave me the confidence to pursue new opportunities and led me to a successful career in management. I always tell people today that everything we do in life is a learned process so don’t be afraid of the challenge you can learn it like any other job you are trained for.

So being involved with the EWMC was both empowering and helped me know my worth.

Is there a particular project you’ve done that you’re especially proud of?

I was hired by Curtis Stephens at Rosendin Electric to oversee a $22 million project, which encompassed instrumentation, controls, network, and also included managing the union fitters under my contract. They were aware that this was a tightly bid project, requiring someone capable of comprehending the entire scope, and I ensured the project’s success. While I managed several million-dollar projects, this one was, in my opinion, the most challenging.

You were also a mentor during your career. Is there an experience that stands out you’d like to share?

Oh, absolutely. So, there’s a company called Affordable Electric. It is owned by an African American gentleman who started his own business but faced challenges with bidding jobs and securing work. 

I spent time with him because I became quite proficient with the AccuBid program, which is essential for bidding work and competing in the market. I mentored Jean and helped him understand the AccuBid program better, identifying areas where he was duplicating efforts unknowingly. Jean started his business around 20 years ago, if not more, and we’ve been friends ever since.

Is there any advice you’d pass on to kids thinking of entering the trades?

You know, number one, I think the trades are the way to go. And it’s important to know that there are several different avenues within the trades. It’s not just going out and just physically working. There are a lot of different career paths. I would also say that you need to make sure you have your math skills together and prioritize being on time. 

“You have to learn it to achieve it.”

I worked as a head coach for a track and field program at a local high school here in the Portland metropolitan area. When I was coaching track, I was tough. The kids loved me but they also knew that if they weren’t at practice on time there were things that were not going to happen—like, you’re not running in the meet. I’ve always felt that beyond winning a race or an event, the true value lies in the character development and the potential for shaping future role models among our young adults.

Another thing is being social. Little groups form in the trades and on job sites, so sociability is important.  I mean, you don’t have to hang out with them, but you’ve got to work with them. Communicating, being approachable, and being social makes a difference while you’re on the job. 

How’s retirement treating you?

Not only did I have a great career, but my union benefits still take care of me and my family.

One of the significant benefits that many people overlook is the medical coverage. It didn’t cost me anything for medical coverage after retirement which was at 59 until I turned 65 and transitioned to Medicare. Interestingly, even though I’m no longer covered, my wife who was only 54 at the time still has excellent coverage until she turns 65 at no cost to us. Another benefit of being in a union.

My benefits extend beyond just financial compensation. There are four pension plans, which become especially valuable during retirement since social security alone isn’t sufficient. With many employers moving away from offering benefits and pension plans, it’s essential to plan for the future. Social Security payments are often minimal and can be wiped out real quick if you’ve got expenses like car payments and insurance. It’s crucial to consider the long-term benefits of being part of a union like IBEW, despite the physical demands of the work. 

Anything else you’d like to share with folks reading this?

At the end of the day, a lot of people are intimidated to pursue a position of responsibility.  So, I just want to say reach for it. Go after it. Don’t cut yourself short. Don’t stay at the bottom where you’re always going to be told what to do or guided in a direction you didn’t choose.

You have to learn it to achieve it.

About Larry Warren

Retired Journeyman Electrician with IBEW Local 48

Connect with Larry on Facebook.

About the NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership 

The collaboration between the Oregon-Columbia Chapter of NECA and IBEW Local 48 is propelling the electrical industry forward, prioritizing integrity, quality, safety, and professional expertise. To learn more about membership opportunities, please visit our membership page.

Exploring the realm of smart home systems might seem daunting at first, but rest assured, today’s technology is more advanced than ever. It brings a plethora of streamlined operations aimed at enhancing your home and lifestyle. Discover the latest innovations below, spanning from robust security measures to wellness features and beyond.

4 Smart Home Solutions & Their Benefits

As a homeowner, there’s no doubt you’ve encountered tons of smart technology products and options on the market. Knowing what solutions are best for you and have long-lasting benefits is important to make informed decisions. 

These current trends are making lives easier through advanced technology.

1) Smart Tech for Wellness

Many people prioritize health and wellness in their lives, with 50% of American consumers considering it a significant aspect of their daily routine. However, we often overlook the role of our homes in supporting our well-being. This is where smart technology comes in, reshaping how we can boost healthy living.

Innovative tech can monitor and improve air quality, reduce humidity levels (a big deal for us in the Pacific Northwest), control temperatures, and disinfect rooms with UV lights. These automated processes can mitigate allergens, prevent harmful mold and mildew growth, and create an overall soothing environment. All of these can go a long way toward better health. 

2) Smart Thermostats 

Speaking of temperature control, intelligent thermostats do more than just keep your home at an ideal temperature. Many systems have eco-modes that regulate settings to optimize temperature, reduce energy loss, and keep utility costs low. Certified Energy Star smart thermostats can save an average of 8% on home heating and cooling costs.

3) Intelligent Security Systems 

Technology has come a long way from the days of punch-panel home alarm systems. Today’s security systems fully integrate cameras, locks, sensors, doorbells, and alarms to keep you safe. Your security information can be controlled and tracked from your phone, whether you are home or away. For example, you can receive notifications if someone is at your front door. With integrated cameras, you can see who they are. 

4) Innovative Kitchen Appliances 

Smart kitchen appliances offer a brand new take on useability and practicality. Smart refrigerators can connect to your home assistants, such as Google or Alexa. Apps allow you to change the temperature, notify you when filters need to be replaced, and—perhaps the coolest feature of all—show you the contents of your fridge without opening the door. Other appliances, from coffee makers to ovens, faucets, and microwaves, can be voice-controlled, so you don’t have to lift a finger. 

The future of smart technology is exciting because it can combine many new ideas to automate homes. Instead of using lots of different apps, modern smart systems can work together smoothly. This collaboration can improve your health, save you money, enhance safety, and more.

Choose an Electrical Professional to Manage Your Smart Home Tech

Whether you’re seeking advice on smart home systems, installation, troubleshooting, or maintenance, opt for licensed and bonded electrical pros. Look for expertise in both electrical and tech installation. Pick a reliable company with expert electricians who undergo advanced training for safety, quality, and top-notch service.

Looking for a local professional? Visit our comprehensive list of top contractors in your area.

In the world of electrical trades, Kennitha Wade stands out as a beacon of inspiration and advocacy. As an electrician and instructor at the NECA IBEW Electrical Training Center (NIETC), her passion for her craft and dedication to empowering others shine brightly. Beyond her technical expertise, Kennitha is known for her unwavering commitment to investing in outreach initiatives and her active involvement in organizations such as the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC).

Join us as we uncover the stories behind her career, her insights into the importance of outreach, and the impact she’s making in shaping the future of the electrical trades. Get ready to be inspired by the remarkable work of Kennitha Wade as we celebrate her contributions to her profession and community.

How did you get started with IBEW Local 48?

You know, right after high school, everyone was like, “Go to college, become a nurse.” That was the plan for me, according to pretty much everyone. Even though I had absolutely no interest in doing that, I ended up following that advice and wasting money on a path I wasn’t even interested in. But I did it because that’s what everyone—my advisors, society—said was the right move.

“It’s all about sticking to what you’re passionate about, even when the going gets tough.”

But deep down, I always knew construction was my thing. I’m all about puzzles and math—always have been. And construction? It’s like the perfect mix of both for me. Out there in the field, it’s like tackling a massive puzzle every day, figuring things out, and then making it all come to life with my own hands. Plus, I get to think on my feet, use tools, and get creative.

Getting into construction, though, was tough. I remember the days of hitting up Yahoo Jobs, throwing my application at any entry-level construction job I could find. Nobody ever got back to me or gave me a clue on what to do next.

Then there’s my friend from my beauty school days, who switched gears and became an electrician. That’s how I heard about the IBEW, though I had no idea how to get in or what it involved. Later, I spotted a flyer for Oregon Tradeswomen and thought, “Why not check it out?” They had this photo of women working on a construction site, and it just clicked with me. I figured I’d attend their orientation to see what’s up. What I heard there resonated with me, so I decided to apply, not sure what to expect. And I got in.

This journey from following a path others set for me to diving into what I truly love has been quite the ride. It’s all about sticking to what you’re passionate about, even when the going gets tough.

What did the apprenticeship program entail?

You go through a five-year program. I did, at least. During this time, you’re learning your job by actually doing it—that’s on-the-job training for you. From the very first day as an apprentice, you’re out there on a construction site, doing electrical tasks under the guidance of a journeyman. That’s your daily routine: go to work, learn how to do the job, get the job done, and then move on to the next one. And this goes on for five years. By the end of those five years, you’ve got a mix of practical experience from working on sites and knowledge from classroom lessons.

This blend of fieldwork and book learning prepares you to take your licensing exam. After all, becoming a journeyman electrician is a licensed profession—you need to pass this exam to earn your title. I finished my apprenticeship in 2017 and then joined the staff at the training center in 2021.

How did you get involved with the Electrical Workers Minority caucus?

I got involved with EWMC pretty early in my apprenticeship, maybe around my second term. It was all new to me—I didn’t really understand what the group was all about. I had received some emails inviting me to join in, but when you’re just starting out in a new career, it’s tough to juggle everything. I was still trying to balance work, school, and life. So, within my first year, they invited me to a gumbo feed event they were hosting.

“For me, the EWMC is like the heart of the IBEW. It’s what keeps the IBEW working and running, and it brings the cohesiveness of being a part of something bigger.”

Honestly, I didn’t have the extra money to buy a ticket, but I figured if I could help out in some way, I would. So, I offered to volunteer. I didn’t even know what I was volunteering for, but they seemed to need some extra hands, so I showed up and pitched in. I think this was back in 2013. Then, they offered for me to go to a conference the next year. I wasn’t sure why they wanted me there, but I thought, “Why not? I’ll check it out.”

And it was that conference for me that really opened my eyes to what IBEW was all about. For me, the EWMC is like the heart of the IBEW. It’s what keeps the IBEW working and running, and it brings the cohesiveness of being a part of something bigger. So, going to that first conference was like, “Oh, this is way more than just a career to make money and take care of your family. This is way bigger than that.”

And so, I learned a lot more about the labor movement, leadership development, and various other things, and making a positive impact on your community is a big part of what the EWMC is about. So since that very first time, I haven’t missed one of those conferences. And I’m very, very active in our local chapter.

What do you think are some of the biggest challenges facing women and minorities in the trades?

For one, it’s tough to picture yourself in a place where you’re not seeing people represented who look like you. When you don’t see opportunities advertised to folks who resemble you, it’s really hard to imagine, “Is there a place for me there or not?” That’s one aspect of it. Another thing is just the lack of information.

The idea that you have to go to college to pursue anything else is still a widespread belief today. People think that if they don’t go to college and get a degree, they can’t do much beyond high school. So some of the opportunities available aren’t well-known. Another issue is, that apart from outreach efforts, there isn’t enough offered in schools to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge for certain jobs or even inform them that such jobs exist.

“When you’re solely focused on survival, planning for the future is difficult. It’s hard to envision a future beyond where you’re at, let alone what career you want.”

You know, there’s a lack of hands-on learning in many schools. It’s mostly focused on textbooks, and practical experience is limited. While some schools offer hands-on opportunities, not all do, and it’s often the schools attended by minority students that miss out on these chances. There’s no outreach, nothing to offer more than just what you’re doing—going to class and trying to stay focused. Maybe participating in sports if your parents can afford it. 

Another challenge is the resources available in the community. When I finished high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do next. I knew what I was interested in, but my main focus was just getting by—surviving high school, navigating life, and staying productive. Many students from my neighborhood have the same mindset: just trying to survive and get out of their current situation into something better. When you’re solely focused on survival like that, planning for the future becomes difficult. It’s hard to envision a future beyond where you’re at, let alone what career you want. It’s like you’re stuck in a cycle, and breaking out of it seems impossible when you’re dealing with poverty and struggling to make ends meet. It’s tough to see beyond those circumstances.

How do you approach outreach in the community?

As I attend career fairs and such, the first time I had an “aha” moment was when I went to a career fair and thought, “Let’s invite as many people as possible to sit at our table.” Let’s make an effort to include every gender and minority status we can. 

And, you know, watching all these different students come to the table and talk to people who look like them was really interesting. It made me realize that maybe there’s something to that. When I go to many career fairs, I often see a lot of white males or even white females, but students of color aren’t coming to that table because they don’t feel comfortable.

So, you know, I think that’s a big part—investing in outreach by intentionally including people who look like the demographics you’re trying to reach. That’s a key aspect of actually attracting those individuals. If you’re not intentionally including people who look like them, then you’re less likely to engage the audience you want to capture.

What are some of the challenges young people have in the apprenticeship program?

Getting the job done sometimes becomes challenging because people prioritize their time over showing up for work. Understandably, people value their time, but I also find it hard to understand how going to work isn’t a priority. It’s ingrained in us that you have to work to survive, yet people call in all the time. I think this is just another aspect of the changing work-life balance—nowadays, it’s more about life than work for many people.

And you know, even if the work ethic isn’t top-notch, employers might still hold onto employees because the need is so great. They can’t afford to let them go, even if they only show up halfway every day. But eventually, when times get really tough, that attitude might backfire. In the meantime, people tend to do whatever they feel like doing, I guess. So, one of the challenges of having more young workers in the industry is ensuring that the work gets done on time. Meeting deadlines, especially in construction, is crucial because if people don’t show up, the work can’t get done.

And it’s also important to instill a strong work ethic. I often talk about the benefits of hard work and the importance of saving for retirement, but high school students might not fully understand that yet. But, when they see the paycheck, they’re like, “Oh, yeah. That makes sense.”

What are some suggestions you have for kids considering the trades?

I often think about subjects we used to consider a waste of time, like math. Math, in particular, is really important. You don’t have to be a math genius to get into the trades, but you do need to be comfortable with it—doing calculations, working with tools, that sort of thing. So, knowing that these subjects are important to focus on, especially in high school, is something I like to emphasize. You don’t have to excel in math, but you need to be comfortable with it.

Also, if you can, take any hands-on or Career and Technical Education classes available in high school. You don’t necessarily need work experience to join a trade, but having related classes on your record looks good and can help you get started sooner rather than later. 

What are you loving about being an instructor?

Sometimes I wonder if I’m not always being used to my fullest potential. Like, I feel like I have way more to offer. But listening to some of the feedback from the students here, representation is huge. We have some students who express how happy they are to have a person of color in the building because they haven’t had one before.

“Being here is about something much bigger than myself.”

That’s one of the many things that keeps me here—knowing that maybe there wasn’t anyone who looked like me in the building before, but for other students, I’m here. I get a lot of people reaching out to me for advice, even people I don’t know. It makes me feel like it’s worth being here, even though sometimes I feel like I could be doing more somewhere else or on a personal level. But being here is about something much bigger than myself.

I make sure they listen to me and follow my directions, and they usually do pretty well. I share my experiences and remind them that I’m just a person like them. If I can experience certain situations on a job site, others are experiencing similar situations. If you can help others not have to go through these experiences alone, that’s great—you’re helping more people. But if we just keep our heads down and only focus on what affects us, we’re not really doing much as a union. 

I tell them that it’s more than just a paycheck; it’s about teamwork. If others aren’t showing up to work, maybe it’s the job site that’s making them uncomfortable. Look at your job site—what is it that might be uncomfortable for people? If you can help those folks out, you make your life and theirs a little easier, and you can make a positive impact.

About Kennitha Wade

IBEW Local 48 Electrician & Daytime Instructor at NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center

Connect with Kennitha on LinkedIn.

About the NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership 

The collaboration between the Oregon-Columbia Chapter of NECA and IBEW Local 48 is propelling the electrical industry ahead, focusing on integrity, quality, safety, and professional skill. To learn more about joining us, please check out our membership page.