The IBEW Local 64 hall in Boardman became a hub of determination as it hosted the electrical trade’s construction wiring portion of the Northeast Regional SkillsUSA Competition.
This was Local 64’s second year hosting the event, which moves to a new location every two years.
Growing interest in electrical trades
Ten students from career and technical schools across the region participated on January 24 – making it one of the largest turnouts ever. It points to the increasing number of students exploring the electrical trade as a career.
“When I was in school, it was all about going to college or you wouldn’t succeed,” said Ahren Peplow, Youngstown Area Electrical JATC training director. “Many are now realizing that’s not the case”.
The competition included a written test and a timed residential wiring project. Each contestant received an identical layout featuring receptacles, switches, lighting components and conduit. Participants were judged on the quality of their work.
“Watching these students work was impressive. The wiring was clean and professional. It’s some of the best work we’ve seen from high schoolers,” Peplow said.
Why SkillsUSA matters
The SkillsUSA competition serves as a vital experience for students, offering them the chance to see how they measure up against peers from other schools.
Connor Jones, a senior at Mahoning County Career and Technical Center, secured first place. He sees the event as a launching pad for his career in the electrical trade.
“I’ve always been interested in working with my hands,” Jones said. “This competition solidified my passion for electrical work, and I’m excited to pursue the apprenticeship.”
The top four contestants will join students from other regions in Ohio at the SkillsUSA State Championship in March. The winner of that competition will then go to nationals.
Electrical is “elite”
Among the skilled trades, becoming an electrician stands out as a smart and dynamic career choice.
“The electrical trade is unique because it combines hands-on work with critical thinking,” said Joseph McNamee, electrical systems instructor at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center. “Our projects often require problem-solving and creativity, which sets us apart from other trades.”
McNamee emphasized that events like SkillsUSA not only showcase talent but also inspire students to strive for excellence.
“It’s humbling and motivating for them to see where they stand and how they can improve.”
Peplow highlighted that being an electrician can be less physically demanding than other building trades, but it requires precision and attention to detail due to safety and complexity of projects.
“The electrical trade isn’t just a job. It’s a career that provides stability and growth,” he said. “Students who choose the apprenticeship can expect great pay, excellent benefits and no college debt.”
As for the impact of the SkillsUSA competition, Peplow said it gives students a leg up in life and for the apprenticeship.
“It provides an invaluable experience for the students and highlights the benefits of a career in the electrical trade. These young competitors are the future of our industry, and their enthusiasm is inspiring.”
NECA-IBEW Electricians makes up a highly trained union workforce in the area. We’re an association of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.