Stephanie’s Journey: From High School Student to Electrical Apprentice

Discovering her Path through the MN Trades Academy

Stephanie has always loved working with her hands. Whether it was fixing things around the house, being creative with crafts, or exploring hands-on projects, she was drawn to careers that let her build, create, and problem-solve. At Irondale High School, she took welding and auto classes, sparking her interest in hands-on work. It was during her senior year, in a Careers class, that she first discovered the Minnesota Trades Academy (MTA) when her teacher handed out flyers.

The program immediately caught her attention—especially because it ran during the summer and offered paid training. She applied with excitement, though the interview was the most intimidating part. Once she was accepted into the program, she thrived—attending nearly every session and making the most of every opportunity.

During MTA, she explored different apprenticeship programs and companies, gaining firsthand knowledge of what a skilled trades career looks like day to day. It wasn’t just classroom learning—she got to work with tools, build structures, and test out different trades.

Falling in Love with Electrical Work

Stephanie found herself drawn to electrical work. She also enjoyed working with boilers and glazing, but something about wiring, circuits, and the problem-solving aspect of electrical work stood out. She got a taste of real-world job sites, trying out projects like: mini window installations, drywall and painting, and operating lifts.

Her stepdad also played a big role in sparking her interest in hands-on work. She often helped him with home remodeling, from framing to flooring to drywall. That early exposure gave her the confidence to dive into MTA’s hands-on projects like building a shed for an elementary school.

During the final week of MTA, Stephanie received an exciting opportunity: a structured pre-apprenticeship program with the Minneapolis Electrical JATC. The program covered everything a first-year electrician would need to know, from technical knowledge to hands-on practice

In order to get into the program Stephanie put her interview experience to the test—a panel interview with six people. It was nerve-wracking, but she did her best, and was accepted into the program.

Overcoming Challenges & Looking Ahead

The road to completing the preparatory program wasn’t easy. While in the 3-month program, Stephanie had to juggle working at a fast-food restaurant while studying and completing 50 modules of coursework. But she stayed focused, motivated by the end goal.

At the end of the program Stephanie and her cohort took the entrance test into the apprenticeship program, which she passed. Soon after, she got the call: she was accepted into the JATC apprenticeship program!

Now, as a newly accepted electrical apprentice, Stephanie is waiting for the season to start and expects to begin work in March. She’s excited to officially begin her career—one she has been dreaming about since her sophomore year of High School.

Stephanie’s journey is proof that taking chances and exploring opportunities can lead to amazing career paths. Her advice?

Try everything—career fairs, summer jobs, hands-on programs.

Take risks—even when things seem intimidating.

Look for opportunities—programs designed to help explore and shape her future.

Find mentors—her career advisor and teachers played a huge role in encouraging her.

Stephanie is proud of how far she has come, and she credits MTA and her mentors for helping her open up to new possibilities. Now, she’s ready to take the next step in her career as an electrician.

 

MN Trades Academy is currently accepting applications for Summer 2025. Learn more here.