Shining a Light on Electrical Apprenticeships: Meet Sam Taylor
Sam Taylor’s journey has been marked by determination and adaptability. After welcoming a new member into her family, Sam realized that the demanding hours of working in a kitchen were not conducive to her role as a parent.
She shifted gears and sought out office jobs, where she found employment as an office manager at TRU Colors Brewery. When TRU Colors closed, Sam did not let the setback discourage her. She embraced a fresh career path through CFCC’s Electrical Apprenticeship program.
FROM BREWERY CLOSURE TO BRIGHT HORIZONS
Following the sudden closure of the brewery in 2022, Sam Taylor attended a job fair where she crossed paths with her future employer, Premier Electrical Staffing . At the event, she also learned about CFCC’s Electrical Apprenticeship program , which ultimately set her on a new career trajectory.
Through Premier Electrical Staffing, Sam was promptly placed with a local electrical contractor. Shortly after her placement, the contractor hired her permanently and enrolled her in CFCC’s program, solidifying her new career path in the electrical field.
“I’m a single parent, who needs to work,” Sam said. “This program is only two nights a week, and it has been worth it. I’m earning a paycheck while getting to work with my hands and training for a rewarding career. I absolutely recommend this program!”
BREAKING BARRIERS
Sam’s interest in electrical work and her passion for hands-on tasks had always been present, making this opportunity a perfect fit for her. Notably, she became the first student from her company to participate in the program, breaking new ground for them.
Furthermore, Sam’s determination and talent shattered gender stereotypes. She joined the ranks as one of the first females to be hired as an apprentice by her employer, paving the way for greater diversity and inclusivity in the industry.
LEVELING UP IN THE ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
Having already successfully completed Level I, Sam Taylor is set to embark on Level II of the program starting in the fall semester. This comprehensive program spans four levels, providing a total of approximately 624 hours of classroom instruction by its conclusion.
While the fall semester serves as the traditional starting point, new Level I students have the flexibility to begin their journey in the spring. They can utilize the summer semester to complete Level I. However, for Levels II through IV, the program mandates that students commence their studies exclusively in the fall.
Beyond teaching high-level craftsmanship skills, this program uniquely emphasizes the importance of understanding the “why” behind their work. This extensive curriculum not only hones their craftsmanship skills but fosters a deeper understanding of their trade.
“It’s a great feeling when I see coursework applied at my job,” shared Sam. “At work, I will be assigned a task, and suddenly, I realize this is what my instructor was talking about. It makes so much sense now, and I understand exactly what I’m doing.”
CONNECTING DREAMS TO OPPORTUNITIES
Sam’s participation in the Electrical Apprenticeship program was made possible through a valuable partnership with her employer. However, for individuals who are not currently employed but aspire to join the program, CFCC offers a supportive avenue.
“We have a list of over 30 employers CFCC partners with,” explains EWD Workforce Readiness Director Emily Holt. “CFCC facilitates connections by matching these students with one of our partner employers, thus opening up opportunities for those eager to pursue a career in the electrical field.”
Are you ready to spark a bright future in the electrical field? Take the first step toward a rewarding career by exploring CFCC’s Electrical Apprenticeship program .
