Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: 4x4dually, Location: Stillwater, OK
Asked on: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 8:11 am EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 8:13 am EST
Question: The boy is a sophomore in High School currently. We've been poking him to start thinking about what he wants to do with his life. He's always known he can't be stuck behind a desk like I am now, so he's been reluctant to get into engineering of any sort. The school toured the local Vo Tech a while back and last week we went back to visit the Electrical Technology trade classroom. The gentlemen that used to teach it was one of the Journeymen that I worked under during my college years as an apprentice, but he's back in industry now. The new guy seems knowledgeable and has been a contractor for years before he decided to teach kids. Seems like a very well planned out environment.Kinda stoked that the boy decided to follow electrons around like I have all my life. The classroom assignments are all preplanned and the kids can work through projects at their own pace and move as fast as they can as long as they are doing quality work, and they pass inspection by the instructor. I think this will work out well for him given that he helped me wire our new house and I've already taught him a lot of simple things like how to terminate a device, run wire, etc. He should jump right in running and be worlds ahead of most. The first-year worth of assignments is all residential. Once he makes his way through those, he can move into a more commercial type of environment such as conduit bending and motor controls. I've always enjoyed motor control, ladder logic, and such. I hope he gets excited when he can control things and make them do what he wants them to do. PLC programming might be one toke over the line for him though. Not sure he will enjoy that stuff. He's not a computer kind of guy.Any who, kind of proud of him wanting to jump into the electrical world. The girl is leaving for college after graduating high school this year and going into Bio Medical. At least I'll be able to talk apples to apples with my son and not feel dumb. LOLI think he will look pretty cool with a belt full a tools, but I'm kind of partial. He made this a while back out of the blue. A neat little linemen scene out of junk stuff in the shop.
This is a great situation! It sounds like your son is genuinely interested in electrical work and that's the most important thing. Here are some of my thoughts and a few suggestions
Positives You've Identified (and why they're important):
Hands-on Learning
The Vo Tech program sounds perfect. A self-paced, project-based learning environment is ideal for someone who doesn't want to be stuck behind a desk.
Prior Knowledge
He already has a foundation. This will give him confidence and allow him to progress faster, which is motivating.
Experienced Instructor
A contractor-turned-teacher brings real-world experience to the classroom.
Residential to Commercial Progression
Starting with residential work is a smart approach. It builds fundamental skills before moving to more complex applications.
Your Enthusiasm and Support
Your excitement and past experience will be a huge asset. You can provide encouragement, answer questions, and share your passion.
Good Job Market
Electrical trades are in demand in many areas, providing good job security and potential for growth.
He has created a Lineman Art
He is motivated! This speaks volumes!
Things to Consider and Discuss
Future Career Paths
While Vo Tech is a great start, talk to him about the different career paths he can pursue. These could include:
Journeyman Electrician
The traditional route, working for a contractor.
Master Electrician
Requires more experience and licensing, but allows him to start his own business.
Specialized Fields
High-voltage work, industrial maintenance, renewable energy, etc.
Electrical Inspector
Working for the city/county to ensure code compliance.
Estimator/Project Manager
Moving into a more office-based role with his electrical knowledge.
Apprenticeship
Emphasize the importance of a formal apprenticeship after Vo Tech. This is where he'll learn the most and earn while doing so.
Licensing
Research the requirements for becoming a licensed electrician in your area. Knowing this upfront will help him plan his training and career.
Continuing Education
The electrical field is constantly evolving. He'll need to stay up-to-date with new technologies and codes.
Safety
Stress the importance of safety on the job. Electrical work can be dangerous if not done correctly.
PLC Programming (Don't Rule It Out Completely)
Even if he's "not a computer guy," encourage him to at least try PLC programming. It's a powerful skill in many industrial settings. He might find it more engaging when he sees it applied to real-world control systems.
Math Skills
Remind him that math is essential for electrical work. He'll need to be comfortable with algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
How to Support Him
Continue to Involve Him
Keep including him in electrical projects around the house.
Connect Him with Other Professionals
Introduce him to other electricians you know.
Provide Resources
Give him books, magazines, or online resources related to electrical work.
Encourage Further Exploration
Visit electrical supply houses, attend trade shows, or research different types of electrical equipment.
Celebrate His Successes
Acknowledge his accomplishments and encourage him to keep learning.
Addressing Your Concerns
"Stuck Behind a Desk"
He's right, an electrician is not stuck behind a desk. It's a physically demanding job, but it offers variety and the satisfaction of seeing tangible results.
PLC Programming
Don't push it if he's resistant, but encourage him to keep an open mind. He might discover a passion for it later on.
Regarding Your Daughter
It's great that you'll be able to connect with your son on a professional level. Don't underestimate the value of that bond. BioMedical is a great career choice for your daughter and also very high in demand.
The Lineman Scene:* That's awesome! It shows creativity and a genuine interest in the trade. Display it proudly!Overall, this is a fantastic opportunity for your son. With your support and his own dedication, he can build a rewarding and fulfilling career in the electrical field. Good luck to him! Flag for review