November 12, 2020
Tallahassee Community College is recognizing National Apprenticeship Week and the programs offered at the College. TCC is proud to partner with Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) to offer a 4-year certification program that includes on-the-job-training and classroom instruction for occupations in the electrical industry as well as partnering with Jacksonville Plumbers & Pipefitters Joint Apprenticeship & Training Trust (JATT) to offer a 5-year certification program that offers training for plumbers, pipefitters, and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning technicians. The apprenticeship programs lead to certification as a journeyman to meet the workforce needs in the Big Bend Region and throughout the state of Florida.
“Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for students and young adults to learn a skill that will benefit them throughout their lifetime,” said Kimberly Moore, Vice President for Workforce Innovation & TCC2WORK/Be Essential. “Trades and apprenticeships in general provide a direct pathway to the middle-class and a fulfilling career in an industry that is in need of a skilled workforce.”
One student participating in the electrical pre-apprenticeship program at TCC is Briyanna Guerra, a 19-year-old Tallahassee native. Guerra always had a love for science in high school, but had no idea what her next step was or what kind of career she was looking for. It was not until her high school, Rickards, posted a TCC program flyer that made her interested in becoming an electrician.
According to a New York Times article, only 2.4% of electricians are female and only 6.8% of electricians are African-American. Guerra, who is of African-American and Hispanic descent and is the only female student in the College’s Electrical Pre-apprenticeship program. She now hopes to successfully complete the program, enter into an apprenticeship, and one day become a licensed electrician. Additionally, Guerra hopes that she will inspire other girls and women to enroll in an apprenticeship program and enter the workforce in a non-traditional trade. It is projected through 2027, Florida will need over 43,000 electricians to meet its workforce needs.
Applicants for the program must:
1. Be between the ages of 16 and 24 years old.
2. Meet TCC admission requirements.
3. Maintain a 2.0 cumulative grade point average.
4. Be able to read, write and speak English proficiently for training and safety purposes.
To apply, please go to forms.tcc.fl.edu/Application/Application/SelectProgram, choose the Apprenticeship Option, then select Pre-Apprenticeship (8018), and follow prompts.
For more information, contact Workforce Development at 833-TCC-JOBS or workforce@tcc.fl.edu.