WECA is excited to announce an update to our original WECA-developed virtual reality (VR) app for apprenticeship: BESS 2.0, the second iteration of WECA’s VR gaming app focused on Commercial Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)!

Fourth-year Commercial Electrical apprentices studying Commercial BESS have been practicing hands-on skills on a real-world project complete with interactive jobsite simulations in VR since the app’s introduction in our curriculum in Fall 2023.

During gameplay in the BESS VR app, apprentices reference plans; see the actual scale and layout of BESS containers; and explore and interact with PV inverters, transformers, and switchboards. Apprentices also use maps and checklists to walk through the jobsite and inspect equipment, connections, signage and more—everything needed for pre-commissioning approval. Along the way, they're quizzed with questions related to Code articles and site-specific requirements, and presented with problems and opportunities to fix them to pass inspection.

BESS 2.0 adds solar panels, enhanced accuracy in replicating real-world jobsites to prepare apprentices for the evolving demands of the industry, an expanded range of learner interactions such as new tools and tasks that help apprentices verify that clearances meet code requirements and reinforce critical safety and compliance standards, and advanced assessment and feedback features that offer detailed performance insights to help apprentices improve their skills.

“Our newly enhanced in-house BESS VR simulation offers a cutting-edge training experience with a streamlined inspection process, allowing users to efficiently navigate job site evaluation for pre-commissioning,” says Maris Kaplan, WECA’s Curriculum Development Manager. “These enhancements were driven by extensive testing conducted by our curriculum team, who observed apprentices in real training sessions and gathered instructor feedback. This iterative process revealed opportunities to improve engagement and clarity, leading to key upgrades such as the introduction of Ollie, our virtual site supervisor. Ollie provides real-time guidance and hints, ensuring a smoother learning curve. Additionally, we condensed the original three-part inspection into one, prioritizing key takeaways and increasing immersion.”

BESS 2.0 is already rolling out in a fourth-year WECA commercial apprenticeship classroom near you. We’re pleased to continue our apprentices’ journey of immersive discovery and for WECA to continue to pave the way for implementing state-of-the-art learning technologies in industry-leading apprenticeship curriculum. 

Meet Some of the Inspiring Women in Our Programs and Go Behind the Scenes at Our Open Houses

Mariah Catuiza, WECA Fresno Commercial Electrical Apprentice

Mariah Catuiza, who works for WECA Member Contractor Westech Systems and is a Commercial Electrical Apprentice at our Fresno Training Facility, explains the benefits of WECA's apprenticeship training program, tying it to her own career progression, and encouraging other women to consider the electrician career path:



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Amanda Young, WECA Sacramento Low Voltage Apprentice

Amanda Young, Low Voltage Apprentice at our Sacramento Training Facility who works for WECA Member Contractor Intelecom Data and Fiber, discusses how fun and rewarding the work can be that she gets to undertake in WECA's apprenticeship training program. She talks about how the Low Voltage field covers a variety of technologies, and how she enjoys that she and other members of her cohort all get to work on different facets of the industry and share that knowledge with each other when they meet up in class. She strongly encourages other women to consider this career:



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Shannon Denetsosie, WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprentice Graduate

Shannon Denetsosie, WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprentice Graduate employed with WECA Member Contractor Corbins, discusses her sense of accomplishment in completing the four-year program, and talks positively about how at first it was a little intimidating being on a worksite that was mostly men, but she quickly found that everyone helps each other out and "It's like you're getting more brothers in your family." Shannon says that she's loving what she does, and she encourages other women to go for it and explore electrical apprenticeship with WECA and this career!



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In Her Own Words: Shannon Denetsosie, WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprentice Graduate

Content courtesy of Shannon Denetsosie

"Construction work was not new to me. Growing up on the Navajo reservation, I watched my grandfather work in mines and heard the stories of how he built the home that I was raised in with no training or schooling of any kind. Seeing what my grandfather built and later the buildings that my dad worked in as a welder, I was always so proud to know that my family had a hand in building things.

I went into construction at the age of 18 and worked as a laborer or welder's helper for a few years, until I became a mother at 20 years old. I became a stay-at-home mom for a year, then started working as a production worker, a picker, then one day I was given an opportunity to work as a Quality Control Inspector for a roofing company that produced roofing insulation. After that, I went on to work in quality positions in plastics and food companies.

During my last job before entering into electrical, I worked as a Production/Shipping/Quality Control Supervisor for a gelato company. As I worked, I attended Pima Medical Institute in Veterinary Technology. I graduated 9 years ago with an Associate degree. However, getting a job in that field is a lot harder than I expected and life sometimes does not allow you to continue what you aspired to do.

Going into the electrical trade was something that just happened after trying to make ends meet with just a warehouse position and crazy hours sometimes, but with very little pay to make ends up. To go into a specific trade, I had my fears and uncertainties of what I would have to deal with.

My first job as an electrical worker was with Delta Diversified at Desert Diamond Casino, where I learned how to terminate transformers, panels, dimmer panels, and all things electrical. I realized that I was good at what I was doing and became more interested in how everything worked.

I had planned to get into their apprenticeship program. However, their program did not fit my life. Then COVID hit and I was let go. I wanted to continue my journey in electrical, so through temp agencies I took jobs for electrical work or even QC work and put in applications with electrical companies.

After many interviews and no luck on anything, I decided to try getting back into veterinary.

Then I got an interview with Corbins and was hired that day in December 2020. Since that day, I went from being an electrical worker to an apprentice who is near the end of completing the program. (Editor's note: In the time since this was written, Shannon successfully completed and celebrated her graduation from WECA's Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship in Arizona.)

I honestly did not think that I would be able to come this far. However, with Corbins' partnership with WECA, it has made it possible for me to work and be in school, and get tons of on-the-job training, especially with being a single mother of two.

The apprenticeship program fits my life as a single mother and I love to learn new things and how things work. Throughout all these events leading up to where I am now, being in the construction trade has helped me build confidence in myself as well as enable me to provide for my kids.

I am now in the QA/QC department and am still looking to progress and learn more skills in this trade.

As a mother and woman in the electrical trade, I have set an example for my kids that if mom can do this, they can do it and accomplish their dreams.

Now my son is currently working for Delta Diversified at the second Desert Diamond Casino being built. He plans to enroll in their apprenticeship program at their next session.

Now with my daughter in her senior year of high school, her goals are to be a veterinarian, a welder, a mechanic, and an electrician.

It fills me with pride as a mother and woman, that I could set an example for my kids that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.

All thanks to Corbins and their partnership with WECA. I continue to learn and have had more doors open up to learning more in this trade." 

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Solei Donahue, WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprentice

This Women in Construction Week 2025, WECA is pleased to reintroduce Solei Donahue, a WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprentice.

WECA previously spotlighted Solei’s accomplishments in June 2024, following her inspiring speech during the 2024 State Workforce Summit in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Solei, who is a Native American woman from the Gila River Indian Community in Sacaton, Arizona, joined the WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship program through WECA and her employer’s (WECA Arizona Founding Member Contractor Corbins) partnership with Grand Canyon University’s pre-apprenticeship program.

“I joined Corbins through a fifteen-week internship program at Grand Canyon University,” Solei said during her speech. “I decided it would be a good experience on my resume, and it would be useful for the future. But I knew once the second semester had started, that this was something I was interested in doing for the rest of my life.”

Solei also said during her speech that the pre-apprenticeship program “gave me confidence to keep pushing myself to stand for all the women in the workforce” and has aided her in “becoming a mature adult who is succeeding at life, in general…this program has given me all the tools and will continue to help me on my journey to becoming a future successful journeywoman.”

Looking back to when she started her official apprenticeship with WECA and Corbins, Solei reflects “I’ve always had an interest in doing the same things guys are doing, and when I found out they want women in construction, I was eager to join.”

Solei says that her first semester at WECA went by quickly but was motivating.

“It was a lot to learn, but I never got discouraged, because I was able to learn with my peers and the instructors are very helpful and encouraging,” Solei said. “I was able to gain new knowledge, and it has helped motivate me to keep furthering my education in the trade so I can help others who started out like me. It has allowed me to work independently in the field with the confidence in what I am doing every day.”

Solei’s positive experience with WECA and the industry leads her to believe that more women should pursue careers in the electrical industry because they will feel “empowered” and states her belief that women “often possess knowledge that others may not.”

Solei credits the powerful women who have “instilled confidence in her” with her success and determination.

“I’d like to thank Shelly Seitz for helping me be confident in my journey, and to the people who are more encouraging and accepting of women starting out in construction,” Solei said. “I’d also like to shout out my biggest supporter and the woman who made me who I am today—my mom, Janice. Without my mom, I wouldn’t be as strong as I am, or as passionate about speaking about my journey, no matter how hard it might have been. I have deep appreciation for everyone I’ve met on this journey and am very excited to see who I’ll meet in the future!”

Thank you for being part of the WECA family, and the growing cohort of women in the electrical industry, Solei! We are inspired by your dedication to encouraging women to join the electrical industry and your support for women already in the electrical industry. It is an honor to have you representing WECA (and women in the industry) in Arizona!

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Women in Construction Week 2025 Open House at WECA's Sacramento Region Office and Training Center



Women in Construction Week 2025 Open House at WECA's Phoenix Training Center/Arizona Headquarters

WECA Arizona hosted a Women in Construction Week 2025 open house in support of Women in Construction Week 2025 at our Phoenix Training Center/Arizona Headquarters on March 6.

The open house, which celebrated women in construction and educated attendees on the merits of WECA Arizona's Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship program, hosted attendees including secondary and post-secondary students, individuals pursuing career transitions, Phoenix-area electrical contractors and Phoenix-area community partners, educational partners and policy makers.

The highlight of the open house was a panel comprised of women from the apprenticeship and administrative sides of Phoenix's electrical industry. Participating in the panel were Shannon Denetsosie, WECA Arizona's first woman Commercial Electrical apprentice graduate and employee of WECA Arizona member contractor Corbins; Solei Donahue, a first-year WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical apprentice who works for Corbins; Arlev Oquendo-Boscan, a Quality Assurance Quality Control Inspector for Corbins and Ashley Whelihan, who works in Business Development for WECA Arizona Member Contractor K2 Electric.

The panel members provided insight into their reasons for working in the electrical industry and the rewards and challenges of doing so, and shared advice with attendees considering pursuing careers in the electrical industry.

Shelly Seitz, a program manager for Grand Canyon University's Center for Workforce Development, and Kate Glantz, the co-founder of Move Over Bob, a tradeswoman-led media and lifestyle brand, also attended the open house.

"The support of our partners is just as important as the efforts of our members in providing a quality view of the opportunity that awaits the women who would like to become tomorrow's electricians," said Heath Anderson, WECA Arizona's Outreach and Workforce Development Specialist. "We deeply appreciate Corbins, K2, and PCL for having staff on hand to speak to our guests about working in our trade. Several guests have already put in applications [for apprenticeship] with a few of our members. Hopefully, the coming years will see a greater number of women helping build the Arizona we want." 

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K2 Electric employees there in support included (from left to right): Michelle Cameron, HR Recruiting; Stephanie Misplay, Workforce Planning Specialist; Amber Todd, HR Supervisor; Ashley Whelihan, Business Development, and Robyn Rosenboom, Director of Workforce Development



Corbins panel participants (from left to right): Solei Donahue; Shannon Denetsosie, and Arlev Oquendo-Boscan



Speaking panel of Corbins and K2 Electric employees included (from left to right): Shannon Denetsosie of Corbins; Arlev Oquendo-Boscan of Corbins; Ashley Whelihan of K2 Electric, and Solei Donahue of Corbins


 

 

Attention Commercial Electrical, Residential Electrical, and Low Voltage Electrical Apprenticeship Grads in California, Arizona, and Utah:

Did You Know That You Can Seek College Credits for Program Completion?


 

WECA's California Commercial and Residential Electrical Apprenticeship programs received college credit recommendations from the National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS) in 2018, and the California Low Voltage Electrical Apprenticeship program received the college credit recommendation in 2021. WECA's Arizona and Utah Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship programs also received recommendations from NCCRS in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

This benefit provides WECA Commercial, Residential, and Low Voltage Electrical apprentice graduates the ability to gain access to college credits for completion of any of these programs by using credit recommendations set forth by NCCRS. While admissions and acceptance of transfer credit isn't guaranteed, more than 1,400 colleges and universities nationwide currently consider awarding credit based on NCCRS recommendations.

Using This Benefit: a Guide for Our Apprentices and Graduates

Q: Who is eligible?
A: Any graduates of WECA's Low Voltage Electrical Apprenticeship program in the class of 2021, or beyond. (Any graduates of WECA's Commercial or Residential Electrical Apprenticeships since September of 2013 are eligible for those programs.

Q: So WECA apprentice grads automatically have college credits?
A: No. NCCRS makes college credit recommendations. (From NCCRS: A college credit recommendation is an academic advisement about the comparability of a learning experience to college-level instruction, such as undergraduate or graduate course work, the amount of credit that may be awarded, and areas where credit could apply. The credit recommendations are intended to guide college officials as they consider awarding credit to persons who have successfully completed NCCRS evaluated learning experiences. College credit recommendations are not actual college credits because the New York State Board of Regents does not award college credit. Through the results of the NCCRS evaluations, however, the Board of Regents encourages colleges and universities to consider accepting the credit recommendations.)

Q: How does acceptance of college credit recommendations work?
A: It is up to the college or university to choose whether to grant college credits, how many, and in what subjects, for completion of a WECA program. NCCRS recommends specific credit amounts and subjects. College and university admissions departments should reference NCCRS' WECA listing here. NCCRS recommends up to 30 semester credit hours for completion of WECA's Low Voltage Electrical Apprenticeship program, up to 66 semester credit hours for completion of WECA's Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship program, and up to 40 semester credit hours for completion of WECA's Residential Electrical Apprenticeship program.

Q: How do WECA Commercial and Residential Electrical Apprenticeship grads use this benefit?
A: Apprentice grads should:

• Identify the college or university they wish to ask to accept a credit recommendation from NCCRS for work completed at WECA. (A list of colleges and universities who have previously participated with NCCRS is here. Seeing a college or university on this list is a promising sign that they will consider NCCRS' recommendation, but is not a guarantee. Further, just because a college or university is not yet shown on the list, does not mean the apprentice grad shouldn't request that they consider the credit recommendation.
• Work with their admissions advisor at their college or university of choice to learn the process for seeking college credits for their WECA Commercial, Residential, or Low Voltage Electrical Apprenticeship program completion. The college or university may refer to this as their PLA (prior learning assessment) process or policy. The applicant should share NCCRS' WECA credit recommendation with the decision makers at their college or university.
• Request a transcript from WECA as requested by their college or university. Email apregistrar@goweca.com with transcript requests.
• If the applicant encounters problems with their transfer credit request, they can contact NCCRS to request that NCCRS advocate on the applicant's behalf.

Q: What about the Electrician Trainee Program?
A: WECA is currently evaluating demand for college credit recommendations for its Electrician Trainee Program.

Q: What if I still have questions?
A: Please call us at 877-444-9322 and we'll do our best to help you out.

Attention Electrician Trainees and Continuing Education Students: April-June Instructor-Led ET/CE Classes Have Seats Remaining; Secure Yours ASAP

Prefer to Learn on Your Own Time and at Your Own Pace? Check Out Our Self-Paced ET/CE Course Options


 

The next round of WECA's GetWired classes for Electrician Trainees and Continuing Education students starts in a week and a half!

If you haven't yet signed up for your desired instructor-led classes, we've got good news for you: there are still seats open in some of these classes (with both online and onsite lab choices)! Enroll ASAP to reserve your spot!

Self-paced more your speed? Prefer to learn on your own time and at your own pace? We've got you covered there, too: check out our self-paced course options.

Use SmartDollar's (Your FREE Apprenticeship Benefit) Resources to Help You Prep Your Tax Returns




 

Content courtesy of SmartDollar

2024 Tax Season Breakdown

Tax season can be overwhelming, but a simple breakdown can make all the difference. Download the flyer to understand how to maximize your refund, avoid mistakes, and feel confident about your finances.

2024 Tax Checklist

It's that time of year again. Everyone is federally mandated to think about their money. Set yourself up for success by making sure you have everything you need to file. Download the checklist.

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Not yet signed up for SmartDollar? No worries -- getting started is easy! Learn how below.

SmartDollar is a financial wellness benefit for WECA apprentices. We announced our partnership with the Dave Ramsey-founded online financial wellness platform in January, 2021 to provide our apprentices with a sound foundation in personal finance management. This benefit is available to all WECA apprentices free of charge. Not yet signed up for SmartDollar? No worries -- scroll to the bottom of this article for instructions!

What is SmartDollar? SmartDollar is a step-by-step approach to handling money with the number-one authority in personal finance, Dave Ramsey. More than 4.5 million people have started on Dave's plan and taken control of their money, and you can too! SmartDollar will equip you to get out of debt, on a budget, and on your way to a strong financial foundation.

The average person pays off $9,405 of debt and saves $6,127 in the first twelve months, and you can too!

"This program is powerful yet simple to understand. The Baby Steps make understanding how to win with money easy! Dave's lessons are fun, informative, and incredibly encouraging. It really doesn't feel like I'm taking a financial course. It's more like learning finances from a good friend...or a financially savvy stand-up comedian! The online tools are fantastic as well, and I love being able to 'ASK DAVE' any question and do my budget online. Love it all!" - Recent participant

With SmartDollar, you'll learn how to...

• Jump-start your money
• Knock out debt
• Secure your dream home
• Retire in style
• Demystify your credit score

How does SmartDollar work? With so many ways to engage in SmartDollar activities and content, SmartDollar Points have been designed to encourage users to establish true behavior change. (Check out the graph below for a quick rundown). The greater the importance and required time of each activity, the greater the amount of points that can be earned. For example, each Core Lesson video completed is worth 250 points. Completing a shorter Deep Dive video is worth 50 points. Tracking a transaction in EveryDollar is only worth 20 points, but users are encouraged to track all their financial transactions with no points limitations. These example activities are key for building the confidence you need to reach your financial goals.







 

Taking advantage of your free financial wellness benefit, SmartDollar, is easy!

To set up your account after accessing your dashboard, click either of the links shown as highlighted in the screenshot to the right of this paragraph. You'll be taken to a page with a SmartDollar enrollment link, where you will be able to set up immediate access to this important benefit.

Ready to get started?

Login to your GOWECA dashboard

And the Sponsors and Gift Donors Who Helped Make Their Graduation Celebration Memorable

Watch highlights from the WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship Class of 2024 Graduation:



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Please join us in congratulating the WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship Class of 2024 on their graduation!

WECA celebrated our graduates' hard work and accomplishments with a graduation ceremony on February 8th at the Doubletree Suites by Hilton Hotel in Phoenix.

The graduation was emceed by WECA Arizona Apprenticeship Manager and Lead Instructor Keith Smart, who ensured the evening proceeded seamlessly. WECA was also pleased to have Don Black (CEO), John Berkhoel (Director of Apprenticeship Training and Facilities), Wendy Flanagan (Director of Apprenticeship Operations), Bob Bartlett (Regional Manager of Business Development, Outreach, and Arizona Operations), and LaKeal Morris (Sacramento-based WECA Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship instructor) on hand to help hand out diplomas, grad gifts, and celebrate.

Relive the WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship Class of 2024 graduation celebration through some recollections below:

Don Black: “It is always inspiring and a pleasure to attend a WECA graduation. Arizona’s graduation was especially wonderful, as many of the graduates spoke during the ceremony. It is rewarding to hear how wonderful their experience was and how grateful they are to have been a part of WECA and the gratitude they show towards their sponsoring employer.”

Keith Smart: “It was an amazing night in seeing the progression from apprentice to journeyman. It was an emotional night filled with the excitement and anticipation of the next step in each new journeyman’s life and career. It is an honor to be part of their lives, even if only for a short time.”

Wendy Flanagan: “It was great to see so many of the grads and their loved ones and the contractors that sponsored them at the event. Everyone was excited, and you could feel the energy in the room. Many of the grads chose to say a few words and hearing them thank their contractors, families, WECA, and Keith especially, was quite moving.”

Bob Bartlett: “The graduation was a resounding success, with a jubilant atmosphere among graduates and their families and friends. Many graduates shared their personal achievements and reflections upon receiving their certificates. Notably, those who had transferred from other programs highlighted the superior quality of WECA’s training compared to our competitors. One graduate remarked that the differences between WECA and the other training organization were substantial—like comparing day and night.”

Congratulations to the WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship Class of 2024! Thank you for being part of the WECA family and exemplifying WECA excellence in Arizona. We are proud of your hard work and dedication and look forward to seeing the collective impact you will continue to have on Arizona’s commercial electrical industry. 

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Some snaps from the evening:

























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Thank you to the WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship Class of 2024 Sponsors and Gift Donors for their generosity and support:


 

Our sponsors and gift donors helped make the graduation a night to remember for our graduates and their families!

Volts Level Sponsors

Corbins

K2 Electric

Amps Level Sponsor

Fluor

Watts Level Sponsors

PCL Construction

Switchgear Solutions Inc.

 

Gift Donors

Milwaukee Tool

Klein Tools

IDEAL Industries

 

Valedictorian Logan Lambert

Prior to becoming a Commercial Electrical apprentice, WECA Arizona Class of 2024 Valedictorian Logan Lambert, an employee of WECA Arizona founding Member Contractor Corbins, learned the value of hard work and using his hands to get the job done by working on various construction projects with his uncle.

Logan, however, credits WECA and WECA Arizona Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship instructor Keith Smart with giving him the additional knowledge, skills, and tools needed to thrive in Arizona’s commercial electrical industry.

“WECA was informative and constructive for us students, and was a lot of fun,” says Logan. “WECA prepared me for my career by teaching electrical theory through presentations, book work, and navigating the National Electrical Code book and tests. Having hands-on labs also helped test our knowledge and understanding of the subjects taught. And Keith’s extensive knowledge in the field and ability to teach and guide us clearly was crucial.”

Logan’s on-the-job experience with Corbins was also instrumental in his success.

“Corbins helped me apply theory and skills learned from WECA lessons and labs to my tasks at work. The many journeymen and foremen who passed on their knowledge and skills to me was also a huge help on-the-job. I’m thankful for the many mentors I have had through the four years I have worked at Corbins, who believed in me and gave me chances to grow and learn,” says Logan.

Current and future apprentices who would like to emulate Logan’s success would do well to heed his simple advice: “Apply yourself, both on-the-job and at school. Take it seriously, because four years flies by like nothing. You don’t want to miss anything or look back regretting that you didn’t try your hardest in the beginning, during the most critical learning years of your career.”

Moving forward, Logan plans to continue to work for his current employer, Corbins.

“They have treated me well and invested in me, so I plan to invest in them,” says Logan.

And last, but not least, Logan attributes his success and Valedictorian achievement to his mom, who taught him the importance of education and applying himself; his wife Elena, for supporting him throughout his apprenticeship, and Corbins employee and WECA Arizona Class of 2023 Valedictorian Logan Stroop, who has served as a great mentor, boss, and most importantly, good friend.

Congratulations, Logan! We are proud of your hard work and dedication to your craft, and for continuing to foster a culture of camaraderie and excellence within Corbins and the Arizona commercial electrical industry.

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Salutatorian Cody Cole

WECA Arizona Class of 2024 Salutatorian Cody Cole, who works for WECA Arizona founding Member Contractor Corbins, says that the WECA Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship Program helped him “build a good foundation with proper skills and knowledge to continue to add onto. During my time at WECA, I was able to apply the knowledge I was learning to on-the-job tasks, which helped me better understand the curriculum being taught.”

Outside of the classroom, Cody says that working in Corbins’ service department helped him be comfortable with many aspects of the electrical industry.

Ultimately, Cody credits his success to multiple factors.

“The largest factors that led to my success within WECA and Corbins was the support and guidance I was given throughout my apprenticeship, and my wife’s support,” says Cody. 

One thing that Cody learned during his apprenticeship that he would like to impart upon fellow apprentices is the importance of navigating the Code, because it will be the most helpful aspect in their careers.

Now that he has graduated, Cody plans to continue working towards his goals and continually improve his knowledge in the electrical field.

Congratulations, Cody, on your graduation and on excelling as the WECA Arizona Class of 2024 Salutatorian! We are excited to see how you continue to build upon the foundation of success and excellence you started here at WECA as you continue to navigate Arizona’s commercial electrical industry!

Sebastian Is Based at Our San Diego Training Facility


 

WECA is lucky to have such a well-rounded and diverse cohort of apprenticeship instructors—and Commercial Electrical Apprenticeship Instructor Sebastian Caparelli, who is based at our San Diego Training Facility, is a fine addition to the team!

Sebastian’s journey in the electrical industry, which began in the early 1990s, has been multifaceted and purposeful. In addition to working in the industry, Sebastian also worked as a contract firefighter, pursued degrees in English and journalism, obtained his C-10 license, and acquired computer and networking certifications to further specialize in subspecialties such as smart home automation.

While working in the field, Sebastian enjoyed “moments where I had to think outside of the box” and found excitement in his success. However, Sebastian found out that he loved teaching during his twenty-year CPR teaching stint with the American Red Cross, and additionally during his time teaching English in Beijing, China.

“I love teaching. I never realized how rewarding it would be. When I started teaching electrical, it’s been one of the most rewarding careers I’ve ever had,” says Sebastian.

With that in mind, Sebastian specifically joined WECA because “WECA has always had a very good reputation, and I wanted to be a part of the gold standard for this industry.”

Now that he is teaching at WECA, Sebastian aims to continue familiarizing himself with the WECA team and the apprenticeship curriculum, and to impart wisdom on his students such as leaving their ego at the door, especially on-the-job.

Outside of work, Sebastian enjoys working on his psychological thriller novel, playing keyboard and guitar, and riding motorcycles.

You're Invited to WECA's Open Houses in Celebration of Women in Construction Week 2025

Phoenix: March 6th at 3:30 PM

Sacramento: March 4th at 3 PM

Please Join Us or Share This Invitation with Someone Who Should Attend







 

Next week, WECA is celebrating Women in Construction Week 2025 with Open House events at our Phoenix Training Center in Phoenix and our Sacramento Region Office and Training Center in Rancho Cordova.

We invite anyone considering careers as electricians or low voltage technicians, as well as community and education partners, to join us to learn how to get involved in WECA's electrical apprenticeship and training programs, get a tour of WECA's training facility and labs while meeting the WECA team and networking with women in the field, and to celebrate women in the electrical workforce.

We encourage you to pre-register for the event to secure your spot, though we will accept walk-ins on the day of the event. However, pre-registration will allow you to receive event reminders and updated event information.

RSVP for the Women in Construction Week 2025 Open House in Phoenix

RSVP for the Women in Construction Week 2025 Open House in Sacramento

Not for you? Please share this invitation with someone you know!



Download a Women in Construction Week 2025 Open House flyer for Phoenix



Download a Women in Construction Week 2025 Open House flyer for Sacramento

 

WECA is happy to announce the launch of the new and improved WECA Gear Store--now offering many items, with offerings slated to grow over time. 

Additionally, the WECA Gear Store is now entirely self-service for online fulfillment. 

Check it out here. Happy shopping! 

Know Someone Looking for a Rewarding and Lucrative Career? Share This Stat with Them


 

If you're reading this, you likely already know that training to be an electrician or low voltage technician is a path to a lucrative career, and that the need for these skilled professionals is just going to continue to grow. But if you know someone else who is looking for a career in a thriving industry, that would like to help build and maintain the United States' infrastructure, share this with them--it may just be the final push they need to get started on their electrical industry journey!

In the next decade, the employment of electricians will grow over twice as fast as all other occupations in the United States due to increasing demand for construction, the modernization or replacement of aging infrastructure, and electricians aging out of the workforce.

With WECA, there are multiple ways to pursue the electrician or low voltage technician career path. If you become an apprentice, your education will be paid for by your employing contractor. If you choose the independent electrician trainee path, your tuition will be affordable--comparable to community college tuition.

Explore WECA's Apprenticeship Programs in California, Arizona, and Utah and WECA's Electrician Trainee Program in California.

Journeyperson Electricians in the Sacramento and San Diego Areas

Get 16 Hours of Continuing Education

Basic Motor Controls, Part 2 on March 8th and March 15th in Sacramento and San Diego


 

Calling all journeyperson electricians in the Sacramento and San Diego areas looking for 16 more hours of continuing education!

Here's your chance to shore up your motor controls knowledge and have fun doing it: WECA is offering Basic Motor Controls, Part 2 on March 8th and March 15th at our Sacramento Region Training Center and San Diego Training Center!

Classes are starting soon--enroll ASAP to get your spot!

Plus, There Are a Few More Days Left to Participate in the February Cash Giveaway




 

Content courtesy of Ramsey SmartDollar and Ramsey SmartTax

Tax season is still upon us, but it doesn't have to be confusing or stressful. Ramsey SmartTax can guide you through it and give you what you need to e-file your federal and state tax returns for FREE. All the major federal forms and deductions are included.

Don't forget--there are only a few days left for the SmartDollar February Giveaway (with a chance to win a $5,000 cash grand prize), so make sure you're signing in to receive your entries for a chance to win the prize!

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Not yet signed up for SmartDollar? No worries -- getting started is easy! Learn how below.

SmartDollar is a financial wellness benefit for WECA apprentices. We announced our partnership with the Dave Ramsey-founded online financial wellness platform in January, 2021 to provide our apprentices with a sound foundation in personal finance management. This benefit is available to all WECA apprentices free of charge. Not yet signed up for SmartDollar? No worries -- scroll to the bottom of this article for instructions!

What is SmartDollar? SmartDollar is a step-by-step approach to handling money with the number-one authority in personal finance, Dave Ramsey. More than 4.5 million people have started on Dave's plan and taken control of their money, and you can too! SmartDollar will equip you to get out of debt, on a budget, and on your way to a strong financial foundation.

The average person pays off $9,405 of debt and saves $6,127 in the first twelve months, and you can too!

"This program is powerful yet simple to understand. The Baby Steps make understanding how to win with money easy! Dave's lessons are fun, informative, and incredibly encouraging. It really doesn't feel like I'm taking a financial course. It's more like learning finances from a good friend...or a financially savvy stand-up comedian! The online tools are fantastic as well, and I love being able to 'ASK DAVE' any question and do my budget online. Love it all!" - Recent participant

With SmartDollar, you'll learn how to...

• Jump-start your money
• Knock out debt
• Secure your dream home
• Retire in style
• Demystify your credit score

How does SmartDollar work? With so many ways to engage in SmartDollar activities and content, SmartDollar Points have been designed to encourage users to establish true behavior change. (Check out the graph below for a quick rundown). The greater the importance and required time of each activity, the greater the amount of points that can be earned. For example, each Core Lesson video completed is worth 250 points. Completing a shorter Deep Dive video is worth 50 points. Tracking a transaction in EveryDollar is only worth 20 points, but users are encouraged to track all their financial transactions with no points limitations. These example activities are key for building the confidence you need to reach your financial goals.

Taking advantage of your free financial wellness benefit, SmartDollar, is easy!

To set up your account after accessing your dashboard, click either of the links shown as highlighted in the screenshot to the right of this paragraph. You'll be taken to a page with a SmartDollar enrollment link, where you will be able to set up immediate access to this important benefit.

Ready to get started?

Login to your GOWECA dashboard

 

GetWired students: We have great news for you -- we've added eight new how-to wiring videos to the WECA eCampus! They're available for viewing in any GetWired course you're enrolled in.
 

Residential 3 Gang Makeup Rough Wire

Residential Single Receptacle Makeup Rough Wire

Commercial 3 Gang Makeup Rough Wire

Commercial Single Receptacle Makeup Rough Wire

Commercial 3 Gang Trim

Commercial Single Receptacle Trim

Residential 3 Gang Trim

Residential Single Receptacle Trim

Log into class and check out the videos

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Then, Dive Deep into GetWired This February with Instructor-Led GetWired Courses with Online or Onsite Lab Options

These February, Instructor-Led GetWired classes (most of which offer a choice between an online lab or an onsite lab option) are still open for enrollment, with all late fees waived!

Choose from:

• GetWired 102 (Feb. 4)
• GetWired 103 (Feb. 3)
• GetWired 104 (Feb. 4)
• GetWired 201 (Feb. 10)
• GetWired 202 (Feb. 11)
• GetWired 203 (Feb. 10)
• GetWired 204 (Feb. 11)
• GetWired 301 (Feb. 10)
• GetWired 302 (Feb. 11)

Enroll here!

 

 

John Arias (far left), Randy Rivera (far right), and their class of third year, second semester Low Voltage apprentices smile for the camera as they celebrate their collective, timely successes with the California Voice Data Video and California Fire Life Safety Technician certification exams.

WECA kudos are in order for John Arias and Randy Rivera's current third year, second semester Low Voltage Apprenticeship class: this class enjoyed a timely 100% pass rate on their California Voice Data Video and/or California Fire Life Safety Technician certification exams!

WECA is immensely proud of the hard work and dedication of these Low Voltage apprentices.

Randy attributes the apprentices’ collective successes to many factors.

“I would say that the third year, first semester content does a great job of prepping students for the exam,” says Randy. “There are also many tips that I gave my students to be prepared, such as using the whole time allowed, triple-checking their answers in the NEC and OSHA books, and using the process of elimination in their answers.”

However, Randy also mentions that success was ultimately up to the apprentices themselves.

“You can have all the resources in the world, but you have to commit yourself and take the time to soak up all the knowledge you can get before you take the exam. The more you study, the easier the exam gets. All I ask of students is to put in the work,” says Randy.

Some apprentices—such as Jayden Tucker-Murphy and Burton Richards—concur but also were quick to assert that their success was due to a collective group effort to learn and succeed.

“As a class, we were all on the same page and we helped each other take studying seriously,” says Jayden.

Burton says, “The factor that contributed most to my success was communication with my classmates and Randy. I asked for help if I didn’t understand something, or asked Randy for stories of his experiences or details to help further explain difficult concepts.”

Beyond that, Jayden and Burton also offered up plenty of tips for other apprentices to emulate and achieve their success.

“My number one tip is to study and study hard, make sure you understand your book and how to navigate it,” says Jayden. “And practice, practice, practice—practice your test on a timer!”

Burton, meanwhile, says “My advice for students taking the exam is to spend time looking up a variety of topics in publications available to you during the exam such as the NEC, memorize the specific sections most pertinent to your exam topic, schedule the exam during your normal daily waking hours, get plenty of rest the night before, take as many practice exams as possible, drink plenty of water, and to answer the questions you’re most confident in first, then go back and answer the questions easily found in the books during the exam, then answer the most difficult questions, and then finally go back and answer any remaining questions left during the time you have remaining.”

Congratulations, everyone, on your achievement! Your work ethic has paid off and will continue to serve you well in your careers. We also appreciate Jayden and Burton for sharing their tips for success. 

 

WECA’s GetWired training and delivery teams kicked off the New Year in usual fashion with their semi-annual virtual Train the Trainer meeting on January 11^th.

During the meeting, the teams celebrated the arrival of new GetWired instructor Sergio Sanchez-Rangel, who also teaches as an Apprenticeship instructor at WECA’s Riverside training facility. He additionally joined our GetWired teaching team in 2024.

In addition to celebrating a new instructor, the teams also discussed new GetWired initiatives, such as the Ask an Instructor help button, the full availability of the entire GetWired Electrician Trainee Program certificate in a self-paced online format for trainees who prefer to complete the program on their own time and at their own pace, the update of the GetWired instructors’ handbook, the projected release of all courses on 2023 code beginning in January 2026 (always concurrent with California's rollover in certification exam code version), the recent addition of eight new how-to wiring videos for our GetWired students, and concluded the event with a freeform roundtable discussion. Our instructors always bring great ideas to the table!

Galen Eckert, the Electrician Trainee Program/Continuing Education Online Education Manager, says, “It was a fun time, as always, to catch up with everyone. We also talked about ways to get students interacting more throughout class, and touched on how important it is to tie our real-world experiences to the curriculum and share them with students. We also encouraged instructors to listen to recordings of other instructors so they can learn and find new teaching styles or stories for them to use in future classes.”

Content courtesy of Anthem

We hope this message finds you and your loved ones safe and well. Our thoughts are with all those affected by the devastating fires in Southern California. In these challenging times, the health and safety of our community is our utmost priority. We want to assure you that we are committed to providing the necessary support and resources to help navigate this state of emergency. Our team is working diligently to ensure that our members receive the assistance they need, and we stand ready to support you in any way we can.

For assistance during this emergency, please call Anthem at 833-285-4030

We are here to help make sure you have access to the healthcare you need. We can help with finding available doctors, refilling prescription drugs, and other health plan questions. We’re available by phone Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT.

Receiving care during the emergency

• You can receive care from any doctor or hospital, even if they are not in your plan’s network. We will cover the claims as if they are in your plan’s network.
• If your doctor’s office or healthcare facility is closed because of the emergency, or if you are unable to travel there, call us at 833-285-4030. We can help you find another doctor.
• If you’re in a care management program and need to reach them, the contact number is 833-285-4030.

Prescription drug refills

• If your Anthem plan covers your prescription medicines, you can receive up to a 30-day emergency refill at any pharmacy now, even if it’s not in your plan’s network. 
• If you use Anthem’s home delivery pharmacy and your address changed, call us at 833-285-4030 so we can make sure to send your medicine to the right place.

Medical equipment that is lost or damaged

• We can help you replace your equipment (also called durable medical equipment or DME). Call us at 833-285-4030.

Eyeglasses or contact lenses that are lost or damaged

• We can help you replace your eyeglasses or contact lenses. Call us at 833-285-4030.

Filing a claim

• You and your doctors have more time to file claims. Call us at 833-285-4030 if you need an extension.

Mental health support 

• Anthem’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers mental health support and resources to help with legal and financial concerns, dependent-care needs, and other life challenges. Call the 24/7 EAP crisis line at 877-208-8240. 
• Our Anthem website also offers resources for mental health support.
• Crisis support is available if you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or behavior, is experiencing emotional distress, or is behaving in a way that could harm others. Call 988 or go to 988lifeline.org to reach the confidential Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Help is available 24/7.

In addition to the above, we are taking the following steps on behalf of our members:

Activating business continuity procedures to ensure continued access to care for impacted members. Please refer to https://www.anthem.com/ca for more information on how we’re working to help our members. 

Identifying members who may be medically impacted by smoke and fire.

Coordinating with providers (e.g., hospitals and nursing homes) to assist in the event of site closures.

Finally, Anthem is also offering free access to its online health option, LiveHealth Online to anyone living in the impacted area. LiveHealth Online offers video visits with U.S.-based board-certified doctors on a mobile device or computer from anywhere for non-emergency health conditions. The free visit offer will be available through the end of the state of emergency. 

Important Notes:

• The timing and locations for these relaxed guidelines may change based on conditions. Please check https://www.anthem.com/ca for updates.
• These changes are for impacted members who reside in Los Angeles and Ventura counties in California and who have Anthem group health plans through their employers, or Anthem individual and family plans. They do not apply to Medicaid, Medicare, Medicare Part D, Medicare Advantage, Federal Employee Health Benefit Plans, or fully insured trust funds. These plans have their own guidelines.
• Anthem’s Specialty lines of business do not include any pharmacy coverage. Therefore, this specific requirement about a 30-day emergency prescription refill is not applicable. All other requirements will apply to Specialty.

 

Content courtesy of Ramsey SmartDollar and Ramsey SmartTax

We're already in the middle of January, which means it's time to look at what's on the horizon when it comes to SmartDollar and SmartTax.

WECA Apprentices can take advantage of Ramsey SmartTax, which lets them file their state and federal taxes for free, while preparing for the upcoming tax season.

Another great way to use your SmartDollar apprenticeship benefit during February is to participate in SmartDollar's February Cash Giveaway (with a chance to win a $5,000 cash grand prize)!

----------------------------------------------

Not yet signed up for SmartDollar? No worries -- getting started is easy! Learn how below.

SmartDollar is a financial wellness benefit for WECA apprentices. We announced our partnership with the Dave Ramsey-founded online financial wellness platform in January, 2021 to provide our apprentices with a sound foundation in personal finance management. This benefit is available to all WECA apprentices free of charge. Not yet signed up for SmartDollar? No worries -- scroll to the bottom of this article for instructions!

What is SmartDollar? SmartDollar is a step-by-step approach to handling money with the number-one authority in personal finance, Dave Ramsey. More than 4.5 million people have started on Dave's plan and taken control of their money, and you can too! SmartDollar will equip you to get out of debt, on a budget, and on your way to a strong financial foundation.

The average person pays off $9,405 of debt and saves $6,127 in the first twelve months, and you can too!

"This program is powerful yet simple to understand. The Baby Steps make understanding how to win with money easy! Dave's lessons are fun, informative, and incredibly encouraging. It really doesn't feel like I'm taking a financial course. It's more like learning finances from a good friend...or a financially savvy stand-up comedian! The online tools are fantastic as well, and I love being able to 'ASK DAVE' any question and do my budget online. Love it all!" - Recent participant

With SmartDollar, you'll learn how to...

• Jump-start your money
• Knock out debt
• Secure your dream home
• Retire in style
• Demystify your credit score

How does SmartDollar work? With so many ways to engage in SmartDollar activities and content, SmartDollar Points have been designed to encourage users to establish true behavior change. (Check out the graph below for a quick rundown). The greater the importance and required time of each activity, the greater the amount of points that can be earned. For example, each Core Lesson video completed is worth 250 points. Completing a shorter Deep Dive video is worth 50 points. Tracking a transaction in EveryDollar is only worth 20 points, but users are encouraged to track all their financial transactions with no points limitations. These example activities are key for building the confidence you need to reach your financial goals.







 

Taking advantage of your free financial wellness benefit, SmartDollar, is easy!

To set up your account after accessing your dashboard, click either of the links shown as highlighted in the screenshot to the right of this paragraph. You'll be taken to a page with a SmartDollar enrollment link, where you will be able to set up immediate access to this important benefit.

Ready to get started?

Login to your GOWECA dashboard