Thanks to our Edison Academy Instructor, Mr. Joe Wolfe, Electrical Construction & Engineering Students got to visit JATC Electric Local 26 on a recent field trip. JATC is short for Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee. The JATC, in partnership with the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) are responsible for the training of the electrical and telecommunication workers employed by all signatory contractors of Local Union 26 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) which covers the Washington, DC metropolitan area and Central to Southwestern Virginia. 

Students were able to learn the history of electricity along with conducting hands on activities like creating voltage. They also learned that JATC offers a 5-year apprenticeship program that they can apply to starting their senior year of high school. Students in the program attend class once every two weeks and still receive their full pay for the day while attending. The average class size is around 30-40 students and upon completion of the program, apprentices can earn up to or over a six-figure salary!  Besides the outstanding benefits and that could be earned, the students were able to hear just how important their work of the trade is needed and appreciated. Thank you Mr. Wolfe for coordinating this field trip of a lifetime!