As we close-out Career Technical Education Month, it’s essential to highlight the significant role organizations like Eckerd Connects play in shaping the future workforce landscape. With a focus on meeting the increasing demand for skilled electricians in the U.S., Eckerd Connects stands at the forefront, bridging the gap between education and employment through its innovative programs at Job Corps campuses and its youth workforce initiatives. Join us as we explore how Eckerd Connects is not only preparing individuals for success but also addressing the growing need for skilled professionals in critical industries.
Located in Washington, D.C., the Potomac Job Corps campus exemplifies how Eckerd Connects is breaking the cycle of educational and economic disparities, equipping the workforce of tomorrow with the skills needed for success in today’s job market. The electrical trade, offered at Potomac and numerous other Job Corps campuses across the country, is equipping future electricians with the skills they need to succeed.
Rya Miller, once uncertain about pursuing a career in electrical work, is now one of many students learning the intricacies of wiring light fixtures, working on circuit boards, and mastering various electrical tasks. Her journey reflects the transformative opportunities provided by Eckerd Connects’ programs.
“Electrical work wasn’t my first choice when I was growing up. But I think what made me want to do it, is the fact that people told me I couldn’t do it,” said Miller.
Currently, Eckerd Connects operates or partners to operate 10 Job Corps campuses across the U.S., where more than 150 students each year are being trained in the electrical field.
In January, Potomac Job Corps celebrated the graduation of four electrical trade students, all of whom either secured apprenticeship jobs or had positions awaiting them. This success highlights the effectiveness of work-based learning opportunities, which offer invaluable on-the-job lessons and often lead to full-time employment.
“Our students’ futures are bright. They will be in high demand,” remarked instructor Scott Joseph Lindsay. “Graduates of our program have the opportunity to earn a respectable income in various sectors, including commercial, construction, residential service, and power distribution positions.”
According to Lindsay, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a demand for approximately 80,000 electricians annually over the next decade. This underscores the urgency of preparing skilled workers to fill these crucial roles and address the aging workforce in the trades.
Across the country, numerous employers choose to partner with Job Corps campuses to train and hire electricians, thereby contributing to the growth and sustainability of the industry. For example, Eckerd Connects is exploring a partnership with Amazon Web Services to train youth in the electrical field to work at its data centers across the country. Or, Omni Electrical, A&L Electrical, Inc., and MetroPower work with the Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania), Old Dominion (Virginia), and Turner (Georgia) Job Corps campuses to provide internships and full-time employment opportunities for Job Corps students and graduates.
Ian Clark’s success story further illustrates the transformative impact of Eckerd Connects’ programs. After graduating from Potomac Job Corps and completing advanced training at the Miami Job Corps Center, Ian secured employment and is now pursuing a promising career path at just 21 years old.
“I’m living the dream—living independently, with my own apartment, a nice car, and a loyal German Shepherd,” shared Ian.
His story exemplifies the opportunities Eckerd Connects provides for young individuals to forge their paths and meet the demand for skilled workers in various sectors.
Beyond Job Corps, Eckerd Connects boasts nearly 70 workforce programs across nearly 20 states, further solidifying its commitment to equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s evolving job market. More than 5,000 young adults receive education, career development, and job training. Eager to learn more about Eckerd Connects’ workforce programs and/or find a program near you, watch this inspiring video featuring NFL Hall of Famer Darrell Green: https://vimeo.com/910937518.
Ian Clark and Rya Miller are just two examples of how Eckerd Connects’ programs are empowering individuals to meet the increasing demand for talented, skilled workers. Eckerd Connects takes pride in being part of the solution to America’s workforce shortage and remains dedicated to preparing individuals for success in the ever-changing landscape of the job market.
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