There’s a new leader at the forefront of the Youngstown Area Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC).
Ahren Peplow, an experienced electrician and passionate educator, is stepping into the role of training director. He’s replacing Ed Emerick, who’s retiring at the end of February, after being in the position 19 years.
Peplow, a dedicated member of IBEW Local 64, has spent years in the field honing his skills and mentoring apprentices. For him, the transition seems natural.
“I’ve always been passionate about teaching apprentices,” Peplow said. “I love showing new electricians the ropes and helping them grow into skilled professionals. This role allows me to take that passion even further.”
Where it all began
Before stepping into his new position, Peplow spent six years at University Electric and served as an instructor for three years at the JATC. His experience in both hands-on electrical work and apprentice training made him a strong candidate for the job.
However, his journey to the electrical trade was not a direct path. After high school, he initially attended college but realized his true passion was for hands-on work and problem-solving.
That’s when he applied for the apprenticeship program and found being an electrician was the place for him.
“Being inside and sitting at a desk all day just wasn’t for me.”
Peplow’s leadership has already been shaping the future of the trade. Now, his influence will be used in a different capacity.
“This was the logical next step for me. I was ready for a change.”
Making impactful moves
As training director, Peplow will oversee the instructors and manage the programming for the apprenticeship. His goal is to give the next generation of electricians top-tier training and the skills needed to thrive in the industry.
“I’m excited to lead this program and continue building a strong pipeline of well-trained electricians. It’s about making sure apprentices get the best education possible so they can go out and represent IBEW and NECA contractors with excellence.”
Although Peplow’s transition from working in the field to a management role is an adjustment, he sees it as an opportunity to make a broader impact on the industry.
“Instead of wiring buildings, I’ll be wiring minds – helping apprentices build their knowledge, confidence, and careers,” he said.
Electrifying leadership
Peplow’s vision for the Youngstown JATC is one of growth, innovation, and continuous improvement. He wants to ensure that the training remains cutting-edge, integrating new technologies and best practices to keep apprentices at the forefront of the electrical industry.
“It’s always evolving. I want to make sure apprentices are not only keeping up but leading the way. Whether it’s renewable energy or EV charging infrastructure, we need to prepare them for what’s next.”
His appointment comes at a time when the demand for skilled electricians is growing. With steady projects and increasing interest in the trade, the Youngstown JATC plays a critical role in meeting workforce needs.
“We’re seeing more young people interested in the trades, and that’s great,” Peplow said. “The key is making sure they get the right training, the right mentorship, and the right opportunities to succeed.”
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.