Being comfortable with the uncomfortable
In May, Caleb King, of Springfield, will walk across the stage to accept his associate in applied science degree from Lincoln Land Community College. He credits the commercial electrical maintenance (CEM) program for his tremendous growth over the past two years.
“While I wanted to be there, I was the student who sat in the back of the room and did not plan to ask any questions,” he says. “I wanted to fly under the radar.”
True to his words, King came to class every day. He listened and learned, not just about electrical codes and wiring, he also learned that LLCC instructors encourage questions and discussions as part of the learning process.
“As I got into the swing of things, my nervousness turned into curiosity and excitement,” says King. “I saw other students asking questions, and the instructors were helpful and encouraging.”
Hands-on learning and educational visits to CWLP, IBEW and local hospitals were the most impactful aspects of the CEM program.
“Those experiences provided me with a clear understanding of the opportunities available in this field. They played a significant role in setting me on the path I’m pursuing today,” he says.
King was introduced to LLCC’s commercial electrical program on the suggestion of a friend. The deeper he got into the program, the more he realized he’d made a great career choice.
“There are more people retiring from the industry than entering it, so more electricians are needed,” he says.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for electricians is expected to grow 11% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.
LLCC’s commercial electrical maintenance program offers a certificate of completion that can be earned in 15 months or an associate in applied science that can be earned in two years.
“I would encourage students or those looking to change jobs to see what LLCC has to offer,” says King. “From the instructors to the skills I learned, the whole journey helped me grow as a person.”