Bright Futures: Apprenticeships & Electrical Careers in Chicago

Posted: January 21, 2025
apprenticeship programs, Career Opportunities, clean energy, EJATT, electrical industry, IBEW Local 134, IN-TECH, Job Security, National Apprenticeship Week, Professional Connections, Sustainable Cities, Union Business Agent, Workforce Development

As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of National Apprenticeship Week, Powering Chicago is proud to showcase the transformative power of apprenticeship programs in the electrical industry. This year’s theme of “10 Years of Engagement, Expansion, and Innovation” perfectly captures the remarkable journeys of individuals like Benjamin Akwaboah and Daniel Zaragoza, who have found not just careers, but lifelong opportunities through apprenticeship.

From Daniel’s progression from apprentice to Business Agent to Benjamin’s discovery of job security and professional connections, these stories exemplify how apprenticeship programs are creating pathways to success, empowering diverse communities, and building the skilled workforce of tomorrow. Our recent initiatives, including participation in workforce development workshops and industry events, continue to demonstrate our commitment to nurturing talent and driving innovation in the electrical trades.

IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (IN-Tech) Celebrates Apprenticeship Graduates

In a meaningful celebration of achievement and dedication, the IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (IN-TECH) hosted its annual Apprentice Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Alsip, Illinois. The evening marked a significant milestone for aspiring electricians as they transitioned from apprentices to journey-level professionals.

The success of these graduates wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of parents, instructors, and the Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Trustees (EJATT). The EJATT plays a crucial role in curriculum development and facility maintenance, ensuring that apprentices receive cutting-edge training in the electrical trade.

This graduation ceremony not only celebrates individual achievement but also highlights the strong partnership between IBEW Local 134 and the Electrical Contractors’ Association in developing the next generation of skilled electrical professionals.

Powering Chicago Joins the Conversation on Workforce Development

As U.S. cities strive to turn ambitious climate goals into reality, a new initiative is stepping in to help unlock critical federal funding for transformative projects. C40 Cities has launched the Catalyzing Local Climate Action Workshop series to empower cities to access and implement government funding opportunities for clean energy.

Powering Chicago had the opportunity to take part in one of these workshops. Our Executive Director, Elbert Walters III, attended and participated in the “Strengthening Workforce: Opportunities and Pathways” panel discussion on Thursday, September 12.

COO of Elevate , Delmar Gillus, Jr., moderated the panel, which also featured the following experts:

Chynna S. Hampton, MPA, Equity Director, Climate Jobs IL AFL-CIO
AJ PATTON, Founder & CEO, 548 Enterprise
Alma M. Tello (MUPP), Director of Innovation and Impact, Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA)

Powering Chicago was honored to be part of this conversation and contribute to the efforts to build sustainable cities across the country. The insights gained from these workshops helped big and small cities take bold steps toward reducing emissions, building resilient infrastructure, and ensuring a healthier future for all residents.

Throwback to National Apprenticeship Week 2021: A Conversation with Benjamin Akwaboah

We are proud to share the many success stories of our apprentices during this National Apprenticeship Week. We’re throwing it back to National Apprenticeship Week 2021, when Benjamin Akwaboah was a third-year apprentice. Akwaboah found job security and lifelong connections through IN-Tech’s apprenticeship program. His journey showcases the diverse paths to a rewarding electrical career.

Daniel Zaragoza’s Journey From Apprentice to Union Business Agent

Another apprenticeship success story we are proud to highlight to commemorate National Apprenticeship Week is that of Daniel Zaragoza. After considering both the electrical and plumbers unions, Daniel started the apprenticeship program when he was just 19 — the youngest in his class. Daniel then continued his work in the field until 2013, then went to work for the Chicago Park District for a couple of years before becoming a Business Agent with the IBEW Local 134 in 2017.

Coming from a Mexican-American father and an Irish mother, Daniel views himself as fortunate to be steered in the direction of the trades and knows that more work should be done so kids know about the opportunities that exist outside of traditional education.

From apprentice to Business Agent, Daniel Zaragoza’s journey shows how trade careers transform lives and empower diverse communities.

Here’s What it Takes to Become an IBEW Local 134 Apprentice

Powering Chicago is proud to offer programs that benefit its members and help grow the electrical industry. We are committed to shaping our future and giving our electricians the tools and knowledge needed for a brighter future.

Have questions about our apprenticeship and industry programs? Want to learn more about how the unionized electrical industry is delivering on its commitment to better construction, better careers and better communities in metro Chicago? Contact us today.