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.

Welcome to our latest Member Spotlight, where we shine a light on the individuals making significant impacts in their fields. Today, we’re excited to feature Bridget Quinn, a driving force in the electrical industry and a beacon of mentorship and diversity at the NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center.

Bridget’s 20-year journey in the electrical trade is marked by her journey-level licenses and role as a dedicated Workforce Development Coordinator. Beyond standard duties, she mentors apprentices and recruits candidates, demonstrating her commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Through collaboration with contractors and educators, Bridget promotes apprenticeships for underrepresented groups, earning her the prestigious Woman of Vision award for her leadership and community impact. This recognition underscores her passion for guiding the next generation of electrical professionals toward success.

Bridget’s mission is clear: to illuminate the path for future electricians through education, empowerment, and advocacy. Join us as we delve into the story of Bridget Quinn, a remarkable individual who is not only shaping the future of the electrical trade but also inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.

How did you get started as an electrician?

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always learned best by doing things with my hands. After high school, I went to college because that’s what everyone expected me to do. I started studying anthropology but then switched to art school because I really needed to do something creative and hands-on. In high school, we used to have shop classes, but they got rid of them after my first year. So, I ended up taking a lot of art classes because I just had to be making things.

After I finished college, I wasn’t sure what to do next. I tried to find a job where I could work with my hands, but those jobs didn’t pay well, didn’t offer benefits, and didn’t seem to lead anywhere. I felt pretty lost during that time. But then, I met an electrician who changed everything for me. He told me about an apprenticeship program. Meeting him was lucky because it led me to a career where I could use my hands-on skills in a big way.

What got you involved with NECA-IBEW Local 48?

It was a moment of clarity for me when the electrician who first introduced me to the trade posed a question after I obtained my electrical license. He asked if I had fulfilled my dreams, and while I wanted to respond yes, there was a part of me that hesitated. I felt there was more I could do.

“When I joined the electrical industry, I was interested in solar energy and helping the planet that way.”

He said that if I wanted to pursue a career as an electrician, I should join the union. Ironically, he was a nonunion contractor! He drove me down to the union hall by accident instead of the training center. So we walked into the union hall and there were a bunch of guys standing around drinking coffee and playing pool. I felt like every head swiveled, and it made me feel very, very uncomfortable, but, you know, I stuck with it.

What does your role as a Workforce Development Coordinator entail?

When I first started, I didn’t have any real job description. It was basically to help women and people of color join our apprenticeship programs. It was a big learning curve and I had to figure out a plan. I was fortunate to be able to meet with stakeholders and community members and network with them. That was a huge help because I was able to learn a lot more about specific barriers that women and people of color face when trying to join a trade.

“When I started, there was one other woman in my class and very few out on the job site. Now, I walk down the hallways and I hear women’s voices coming out of every corner of the building.”

What kind of changes did you develop and implement?

I started personally reaching out to every single female and BIPOC [Black, Indigenous & People of Color] applicant at every step of the application process. I explained how the process worked and why it was really important to prepare for each step. I shared resources with applicants and insights into the interview process. I let them know that there were groups that could help mentor and support them as well, like Sisters in Solidarity, the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC), and RENEW 48. 

I also began conducting material handling classes to offer them an advantage. They learned about materials, tools, construction culture, and handling negative situations. Equipped with this knowledge, they could approach contractors confidently.

“In 2011, we had about 12% female enrollment and 12% of our apprentices were BIPOC. Today we’re at 19% women in 27% BIPOC. I think that my role as a Workforce Development Coordinator has played a part in helping increase those numbers.”

I also run our Ambassador 48 program, which is a platform to train our members for career fairs and speaking engagements in classrooms. This allows us to match individuals from our diverse community with schools that share similar diversity and age groups. They can relate more effectively to these younger audiences compared to someone like myself, who graduated from high school many years ago.

Could you share a success story of an apprentice who has thrived under your guidance or mentorship?

We used to hold public orientations every month in our auditorium. This young gal showed up and I think she might have still been in high school. She was a foster kid and already a single mom. She approached me after the orientation and said, “Hey, I just wanted to let you know that when I first got here, I almost left because the auditorium was full of men. But then I saw you walk in and I saw that you were going to lead the session so I decided to stick around.” 

And so we kept in touch and I helped her navigate through the application process. It took some time, but seven years later she journeyed out and I’ve watched her raise her son, buy her first house, and have a wonderful life for herself. 

When we’re talking about the next generation of electrical professionals, what do you feel they need to succeed?

First off, I’d say passion is key. You’ve got to love what you do because there are days that are going to test you—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s those days when your love for moving around, using your hands, and creating something from nothing really matters. 

You also need the right skills, especially mechanical ones. Being able to handle tools, stay on your feet all day, work in tight spaces, or reach overhead are all part of the gig. Passion is what keeps you going, but these skills are what get the job done.

Then there’s being prepared. Here at the training center, we’ve got rules and policies you need to stick to—no missing days, no being late. You’ve got to have a reliable way to get here, even if it means dealing with long commutes or starting early. 

“Being physically and mentally ready is one thing, but having a strong support network? That’s gold.”

Resilience is another big one. Construction means no two days are the same. You might have to adapt to new schedules, new leaders, or new team dynamics. One day you’re with a crew you click with, and the next, you might not be so lucky. This is where your ability to communicate comes into play, helping you deal with tough colleagues or mentors who aren’t exactly thrilled to teach. Being able to navigate those situations, to get the training and support you need, that’s crucial.

What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a career in the electrical trade, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds?

For those in our industry reading this, remember that you’re always on someone’s radar, whether you realize it or not. The way you present yourself on site, how you talk, and how you act doesn’t just influence our current customers and members—it shapes our future ones too.

I’ll give you an example. Once, while working at the Multnomah Athletic Club, I was up on a ladder and suddenly got the sense that someone was watching me. I looked down to find a little girl with her mother, staring up at me. She asked if I was an electrician, and when I said yes, her reaction was priceless. She thought it was the coolest thing. It just goes to show, you never know who’s looking up to you, literally and figuratively, just by doing your job.

So, take pride in your work and let it show. Your actions might inspire someone’s future decisions. Get involved, too—join the ambassador program or help out with what your local is doing. It’s something to be proud of.

About Bridget Quinn

Journeyman Electrician & Workforce Development Coordinator at NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center

Connect with Bridget Quinn on LinkedIn.

About the NECA/IBEW Local 48 Partnership 

The Oregon-Columbia Chapter of NECA and IBEW Local 48 partnership propels the electrical industry with a focus on integrity, quality, safety, and expertise. Visit our membership page to learn about how to become a member, benefits, and more.

It’s no wonder why solar panels are so popular. As your solar panels generate electricity effectively over time, you’ll save more money in the long run. Most residential panels operate efficiently for 25 years before any noticeable degradation in energy production. Even after this period, they still convert sunlight into solar energy, albeit at a slightly less efficient rate compared to when they were new.

Plus, the installation of this green technology can mean money-saving tax credits. In Washington and Oregon, taxpayers could see up to 26% in Federal tax credits.

The Importance of Properly Vetting Your Solar Professional

Sadly, due to rapid industry growth, incentives, and more, there’s been an increase in fraud in the solar industry.

The push to get Americans to adopt rooftop solar panels has increasingly fallen into the hands of opportunistic salespeople with limited understanding of renewable energy. Motivated by high commissions, they’re aggressively marketing solar power nationwide, often sidestepping regulations like Do Not Call lists and misleading homeowners with tactics learned from online “sales gurus.” Many operate as independent contractors, evading accountability to any specific solar company, and earn substantial profits, sometimes by exploiting elderly and low-income consumers.

If you are new to solar panels or just want to increase the longevity of your existing ones, be sure to work with certified electrical professionals and get the job done right. These professionals are rigorously trained and certified, offering expertise and ethical assurance. Choosing wisely defends against deceitful practices, ensuring a reliable and effective solar investment.

4 Reasons to Leave Solar Panel Installation & Maintenance to the Experts 

While  DIY solar panel installation and maintenance might seem manageable, here are four reasons to let the electrical experts handle it.

1) Safety First

There is a reason why electricians and electrical contractors are certified. Working with electrical components, including solar panels, comes with some degree of risk. Electrical professionals are well-versed in safety protocols, skilled in the latest technology, and familiar with high-voltage components. 

In certain circumstances, it’s possible to install solar panels yourself. Washington State allows residential and commercial building owners to DIY their panels with the appropriate permits, for example. However, self-installation comes with a few risks and drawbacks.

• The permits and paperwork can be time-consuming and confusing. Navigating building codes and city regulations involves thorough research. Plus, if you are connecting your panels to an electrical grid, you also need to secure permission from local utility companies. 
• If you are still getting familiar with solar panel setup and area coverage, you run the risk of over- or under-purchasing the number of panels you need. This requires either additional spending or more visits to the supplier.
• Improper installation can be an electrocution or fire risk.
• Some solar panel companies won’t honor warranties if DIY-installed.

Seeking out professional electrical experts means all your permits will be in order, panels will be correctly installed, and there will be a reduced risk of safety hazards. It’s important to note that the State of Oregon requires contractors and other individuals who install solar photovoltaics (PVs) to be licensed. So, any installation must be handled by a professional.

2) Optimized Power Consumption

To maximize energy savings from solar panels, it’s crucial to calibrate them for optimal power consumption. This involves fine-tuning various parameters such as tilt angle, orientation, and shading to ensure that the panels capture the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day. Additionally, monitoring and adjusting the system’s performance regularly can help maintain efficiency and address any issues promptly. 

Electrical professionals are trained in PV cell adjustments and more to ensure optimal solar performance. 

3) Diagnostics & Repairs  

Like other appliances, solar panels may encounter issues requiring professional attention. Poor performance, damage, or battery malfunctions can occur. Electrical contractors can conduct a comprehensive diagnostic, inspecting cables, panels, inverters, and isolators to identify and address any problems efficiently.

4) Maintenance 

The key to solar panel longevity is proper maintenance. Routine checks catch issues before they become problems. Most contractors recommend panel inspections annually. However, a maintenance schedule depends on warranties, panel age, and overall condition. 

Electrical professionals can run inverter live tests and ISC checks to determine a panel’s overall performance as well as suggest a schedule based on your unique needs. 

Find a Licensed Electrical Professional Near You

Solar panels are an excellent investment, so you want to ensure top electricians and contractors handle them. If you are looking for experts in the Pacific Northwest who have training on new technologies and are well-vetted in the industry, work with union members in your area.

The NECA–IBEW Local 48 partnership provides businesses, commercial building owners, and homeowners with a list of all licensed union electrical professionals in the area. Find an electrical professional in your area to ensure your solar panel needs are managed with expertise.

The electrification of everything is here. More and more vehicles are shifting to electricity and letting go of fossil fuel-based energy. For the electrical industry, this is exciting news! Converting non-electric energy sources to electricity means more jobs and growth opportunities.

States like Oregon are doubling down on their promises to promote cleaner energy. Part of the Oregon Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) long-range plan is to have 100% percent of new cars sold be emission-free and increase charging ports by 4,712% by 2035. ODOT has also allocated $52 million over the next five years to install charging ports across Oregon.

How could the electric vehicle movement affect you and your professional growth? Learn more below.

The Evolution of Electric Vehicles

In 2023, fully electric and plug-in hybrid cars saw a 35% jump in sales compared to 2022. Why the increased interest? Today’s consumers want to reduce gas expenses and help combat greenhouse gases. Plus, federal and state government incentives have advanced EV investment, infrastructure, and manufacturing.  

This accelerated market growth has lasting impacts on the electrical industry. EV charging station installation and maintenance needs will grow in the coming years. This means workers and contractors have opportunities to prioritize learning new technologies today.  

How Electric Industry Professionals are Preparing for the EV Trend  

With massive growth on the horizon, electrical contractors and tradespeople are upping their education and skills to get ready for an EV future.

As more consumers buy EVs, there will be more demand for in-home charging stations and public ports. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocates $75 billion toward EV infrastructure and plans to install 500,000 public ports by 2023.

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) offers North America’s most comprehensive electrical vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) training. Eligibility requires state electrician licensure or certification. The NECA-IBEW training center gives members access to cutting-edge continuing education. For instance, members can complete the EVITP certification via a 20-24 hour online course, and upon completion, the NECA-IBEW Local 48 partnership will provide reimbursement to its members.

Unlock Educational Paths Through Membership

Unions are committed to fostering innovation within the industry’s workforce. Members receive relevant educational resources to help expand their career goals. 

• NECA: NECA provides a variety of specialized educational programs covering electrical construction, safety, project management,and emerging technologies, as well as business and professional development. This commitment empowers business owners and electrical professionals to excel, stay updated, and serve clients better.
• IBEW: IBEW provides diverse educational programs covering electrical installation, safety, advanced technology training, and more. Their commitment empowers members for career success and staying updated in the industry, benefiting their communities.

Discover the Difference Membership Can Make

The NECA–IBEW Local 48 partnership provides real-world training and education access so you can stay current with industry advancements. 

Check out our membership page to learn about joining, benefits, and more.