"I'm a veteran of the United States Air Force. Working in electronics coming out of the military was a low-paying career field. My family and I barely scraped by. I knew there had to be a path to a higher-paying career. Through the Helmets to Hardhats program, I was able to join the IBEW and work our way out of poverty.

Thanks to the IBEW, we're able to live comfortably with health care and peace of mind. After just 18 months as an apprentice, my family and I were able to move into our own home. I've been able to afford to take my children on vacations and we're able to spend time away from work hunting and fishing and doing the things we enjoy together.

And because of IBEW/NECA's training and safety practices, I know I will be coming home to my family at the end of the day.

Over my 20 years in the industry, I've worked as an apprentice, a journeyman, a foreman and a project manager. And now I'm able use some of what I've learned to help train the next generation as an electrical instructor. It's all because of my IBEW membership."