How long have you been working at Parkway? How long have you been an electrician? 

I started my career as an electrician six years ago with Parkway as an electrical apprentice. I started working on Fridays while attending GRCC and became full time after graduating from the 18-week electrical apprenticeship through the M-TEC Center. 

What led you to choose this career? 

I didn't pursue a career as an electrician until I was 25 years old. Right out of high school I attended GVSU and received a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology. I then completed the police academy at Lansing Community College and started employment with Royal Oak Police Department in 2012. I realized shortly after, that a career in Law Enforcement was not for me and did not suit my personality. 

I knew I liked working with my hands and became interested in electrical work after rewiring the controls on an electric La-Z-Boy recliner. I started to explore my options and found the apprenticeship program through GRCC. I worked through my apprenticeship and passed my journeyman test in January of 2019. 

What do you feel is the most rewarding aspect of your job? 

One of the most rewarding aspects of this career is being able to drive through West Michigan and point out jobs that I have worked on. I enjoy being able to recall the challenges and time spent with coworkers, solving problems, and completing projects that have become a part of Grand Rapids, Holland, and other areas of the state. 

I also enjoy turning on a circuit breaker and watching the lights come on. That will never get old. 

Tell me about working for Parkway.

My favorite part about working for Parkway is my coworkers. A job can easily be just a paycheck. But I have grown to look forward to the workday when I know I get to work with people who are willing to teach each other, laugh together, and carry on conversations as we complete our daily tasks. 

Any last thoughts?

Not everyone needs a college degree to be successful in life.