Michon Peterson’s decision to become a journeyman electrician started with a piece of advice from a family member.
“My grandpa used to be a pipefitter,” he said. “He always told me to look into the trades.”
Peterson took those words seriously, and the electrical trade was the first one he explored. He initially considered college but was trying to avoid debt and career uncertainty after high school.
Taking steps toward excellence
Peterson tested for the apprenticeship, and did well the first time, but didn’t get accepted. In the meantime, he chose to start the Construction Wireman/Construction Electrician (CW/CE) program, which allowed him to continue getting hands-on experience.
“At 18, I wasn’t sure if being an electrician was what I wanted long-term, but the CW/CE program gave me a chance to prove I was serious about this career.”
A year later, he was accepted into the apprenticeship through IBEW Local 573. It was a notification that came in the nick of time.
“I also went through the orientation process at the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA). I was about to sign the papers to go, but I got a letter about the apprenticeship. That was the saving grace right there,” he said.
Peterson took the commercial/industrial route, so it was a five-year apprenticeship. Now that it’s over, he believes the experience was invaluable, and the challenges helped him grow.
“Remembering all the names of materials and steps for different jobs was tough at first, but once you get through that, it eventually becomes second nature.”
Even on a personal level, he notices differences.
“It really pushed me out of my shell. I used to be shy, but now I’m comfortable talking to new people and working with different crews.”
Life outside the electrical trade
At 26, Peterson sees his career as a journeyman electrician as a path to long-term success and stability.
“One of the best parts of this trade is that you work to live, not live to work,” he said. “You can make a good living, have great benefits, and still enjoy life outside of work.”
He’s already seen his share of big projects in the Mahoning Valley, including the Ultium battery plant, NASA’S Glenn Research Center in Cleveland and upgrades at the Eastwood Mall complex.
While Peterson hopes to be in the electrical trade until he retires, he also remains focused on the present.
“I like where I am now. I get to travel, meet new people and do work I’m proud of.”
He recently decided to head to the Columbus area for work. The ability to travel to other places is a benefit for IBEW members.
Inspiring the next generation
Peterson also finds it important to share his expertise with future generations. He’s been a fixture at the Mahoning Valley Skilled Trades Expo, connecting with middle and high school students interested in the trade.
“I try to relate to them on a personal level. I show them the tools we use, explain what the job is like and make it fun. Somes students come back the next year and say they remember me. That’s a good feeling.”
Peterson has a straightforward message for young people who want to go into the electrical trade.
“It’s one of the best trades out there. You’re clean most of the time, it’s safe, and you get paid well. However, you have to be willing to learn and put in the effort.”
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.