Local 573 memorial scholarship recipient reflects the values of late apprentice
For the second year, an IBEW Local 573 apprentice has been awarded a $600 scholarship in memory of Adam Connelly, who passed away following a car accident in November 2022.
Instructors at the Warren JATC chose Mike Ferradino as this year’s recipient. Connelly’s parents, Amy and Matt, decided that starting a scholarship was the best way to honor their son after he died.
“Adam was hard-working, humble, honest and a quiet leader,” Amy Connelly said. “When the instructors told us Mike had those same traits, we knew he was the right person.”
The Connellys recently met with Ferradino to present the check.
Parallel paths to the electrical trade
Ferradino, 23, is a second-year apprentice from McDonald. He says the recognition is more than financial assistance, it’s a meaningful affirmation.
“I don’t have to worry about paying my tuition this year. It means a lot to be selected, and I appreciate what the Connelly family is doing,” Ferradino said.
His journey into the trade also connects with Adam’s in some ways.
Ferradino started out as a shop kid at CR Electric and later joined the Construction Wireman (CW) program for about two years before getting into the apprenticeship.
Adam worked at Cretella Electric cleaning the shop and driving trucks before becoming an apprentice.
“I knew I didn’t want to be in an office every day. I like being hands-on, and the trade has been a perfect fit,” Ferradino said.
He’s now at the same milestone Adam had reached before he died – and is busy soaking up every experience on the job.
“You’re always learning something new. It’s never the same every day, and that’s what I love.”
A legacy that powers others
The drive and dedication that Ferradino has is exactly what the Connellys were looking for.
“It’s hard introducing Adam to people who never met him, but every year we do this, it keeps his spirit alive in the trade that he loved,” said Matt Connelly.
The scholarship is made possible through an annual basketball fundraiser held during the Hubbard vs. Girard game. Adam graduated from Girard but coached at Hubbard High School.
The money doesn’t just go for the Local 573 scholarship, but also for two additional $1,000 awards for Girard seniors pursuing the trades.
Local 573 leadership recognizes the Connellys’ efforts and applauds how it will influence the future.
“We’re going to continue helping the fundraising cause however we can,” said Todd Ambrose, business manager, IBEW Local 573. “This is a special way to remember Adam and help good apprentices like Mike.”
Carrying the light forward
Whether it’s in the field or in the classroom, Ferradino’s work ethic also doesn’t go unnoticed.
“He shows up prepared, puts in the work and wants to get better every day,” said Eric Davis, training director, Warren JATC.
Ferradino understands the magnitude of what the scholarship represents and expressed his intent to pay it forward.
“I’d like to make a donation. The scholarship helped me, and I want to be part of keeping it going.”
The Connellys believe Ferradino embodies their son’s character and demeanor, and Amy Connelly offered him simple advice for the future.
“Just live well. Do well.”
NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.
