Two successful electrical contractors recently met with advanced electricity students at the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center (ATC) as part of “Power in Partnership,” a collaboration between the ATC and Graves County Economic Development (GCED) that brings professionals to the classroom to share their expertise and offer career advice.
Rory Brewer, J. Brewer Electric and Triple J Management & Consulting, and Chris Grooms, President, Rick’s Electric, are both highly skilled artisans and successful entrepreneurs who helped the students create a vision for their own success.
“It was great to talk with the electrical trade class at the Mayfield/Graves County ATC,” said Brewer. “It’s good to see that interest in the trades is once again on the rise. It is projected that America needs to add 80,000 electricians a year until 2035 in order to meet demand. These jobs put food on tables and clothes on backs. The electrical trade is also versatile—it’s a profession that allows you to stay home and raise a family or literally work anywhere in the world.”
“It is always a privilege to speak to the students enrolled in the electrical program at the Mayfield ATC,” said Grooms. “All leaders of the electrical industry should take every opportunity to encourage and educate these students who will be the future of our trade, especially at a time when we are experiencing a historic shortage of experienced electrical workers.”
“Having guest speakers in my classes is a huge benefit for the students,” said Brad Tucker, ATC’s Electricity Instructor. “When people speak who could one day be their boss, the students listen and the message really soaks in. I can tell the students the same information over and over, but when it comes from the mouth of people in the ‘real world,’ they take it more seriously.
“Thanks to GCED and the Power in Partnership program, we have had several speakers in our classes this year. Thank you, GCED, as well as all of the speakers who have been willing to give of their time to my students,” Tucker added.
“GCED is pleased to partner with the ATC to create these valuable learning opportunities for our future workforce,” said Jason Lemle, GCED President. “Working with our partners to create opportunities for students while making long-term investments to help meet the needs of our employers, is critical to GCED’s mission.”
Electricity was the second Power in Partnership presentation of the spring semester. Upcoming sessions include machine/tool and lumber/carpentry. An accounting presentation was completed earlier this year. Watch for future updates as these sessions are completed.
About Graves County Economic Development
Graves County Economic Development began in 1981, becoming the driving force behind expansion and development opportunities in the community. It continues to foster strong relationships with existing businesses and attracts new industry to grow in Graves County. There are 44 industrial businesses in Graves County that employ 2,300 people in the community.
