The original blueprint for Tom Plummer’s life didn’t include being an electrician, but at the end of the day, he knew he wanted more than a desk job.
Originally from Clarion, Pa., Plummer spent four years at Penn State Dubois, where he pitched for the baseball team and earned a degree in Human Development and Family Studies.
He worked with individuals with special needs for a couple of years after graduating, and while it was rewarding, he still felt something was missing. Growing up, there were foundational moments that helped shape his future.
“My dad was a forester, and he would take me to the log yard. My first job was a laborer – weed whacking and cutting grass,” Plummer said. “I saw my dad get up every day and go to work, and that really instilled that blue-collar work ethic in me.”
Finding the spark
The desire to be hands-on eventually led him to trade school, where he earned a degree in electrical technology in 2021. He worked with a company for a short time before applying for the apprenticeship with IBEW Local 64.
Now at 28, Plummer has almost completed his second year of the five-year commercial apprenticeship. The electrical trade offers opportunity in the work itself, but also financial stability and benefits from day one.
“You’re learning while you’re earning, and I think that’s what makes it so worthwhile. You’re not racking up debt, you’re building a career and getting paid well to do it.”
He’s currently with “Joe” Dickey Electric – working on the construction of the Austintown Fitch Schools’ indoor sports training facility. Plummer has been involved in organizing the complex system feeding the power, bending and installing conduit across the ceiling, and pulling wire.
Building electrician experience
Other projects he’s tackled as an apprentice include the new Chase Bank in downtown Youngstown, a lighting and power renovation at Window World, an upgrade at the Salem Walmart and a variety of other service jobs.
“Electricity intrigues me. It can be dangerous, so you have to know what you’re doing,” he said. “I also like the variation of work – not staying at the same place every day. You get to bounce around, see new places, and that all jibes for me.”
Journeymen and other apprentices that work with Plummer have nothing but good things to say.
“He’s a great apprentice that’s eager to learn and is a hard worker. Those are two key things that are often missing these days,” said Jeff Kirlick, foreman, Dickey Electric.
While he’s building confidence and learning from every job experience, being an electrician keeps him on his toes.
“The thing about the trade is, just when you get comfortable, you’re introduced to something else. You’re always learning.”
Grounded and ready for growth
Plummer’s passion is reinforced by the long-term outlook for the industry; one he sees as a stable and promising future.
“I know there’s job security. Electricians are very much in demand,” he said.
When he’s not wearing a tool belt, Plummer enjoys working out, skiing, golfing and watching sports – especially baseball. He was married in October 2024 and now lives with his wife in Boardman.
Looking ahead, he’s not interested in chasing flashy titles or being in the spotlight. He wants to keep improving, build a reliable future and stay true to his roots.
“I found something that challenges me, that I enjoy and that I can be proud of,” Plummer said. “That’s what matters most.”
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.