Is SVCTE, a CTE school, a legit enough school for electrican?
I am currently a student at San Jose Job Corps and I am trying to be a electrician. The center here doesn't actually teach people Electrician despite that being my trade and instead sends people to a place called SVCTE, a Career Technical Education school, to obtain the trade. Has anyone gotten hired as a pre-apprentice at San Jose Job Corps or SVCTE?
Information on Trade: https://www.metroed.net/Page/115
Video related to the trade: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUkDrPn_ZvI
6 answers
Cindy’s Answer
My husband was a plumber for 20 years and went through their 5 year program for free and made great money later after he got his license. He stayed with the Union the whole time.
TRAVIS’s Answer
Congrats on choosing a trade. The Job Corps is an excellent place. If you want to become a journeyman electrician you will need to complete a certain amount of hours of hands on training. Please speak with you career counselor about continuing your training. The work you complete at the Job Corps will mostly be pre-apprenticeship work. You will want to complete Work Based or Home Based Learning through an apprenticeship program external to the Job Corps. Through a Work Based or Home Based learning you are still enrolled at the Job Corps, but are working with a company in the community towards your apprenticeship completion. Apprenticeships are excellent ways to earn while you learn. Basically you start working as an apprentice and continue your education several nights a week. You gradually get paid more as your progress. Talk to your counselor or instructor about what past students did to succeed. You want to become a master electrician. It will take time, but you will do it if you stay focused and ignore negative influences.
https://ibew332.org/apprenticeships/
Elizabeth (Betsy)’s Answer
Cindy's suggestion is spot-on! Your local union is a fantastic resource to guide you towards a reputable trade school. Additionally, reaching out to local electricians you may know can provide valuable insights about where they gained their qualifications.
Don't be too quick to rule out SVCTE, though. It might just be the perfect starting point for you. Technical schools often boast robust programs, and my own son reaped great benefits from attending one during his high school years.
Wishing you all the best on this exciting journey!
Don’s Answer
Jacob’s Answer
1. **Check Accreditation**: Ensure that SVCTE is accredited or recognized by relevant industry organizations or authorities. Accreditation often indicates that the training meets certain standards and is respected within the field.
2. **Research the Program**: Look into the specific electrical program at SVCTE. Review the curriculum, the qualifications of the instructors, and any industry partnerships they may have. Are they aligned with the skills and knowledge you need as an electrician?
3. **Talk to Alumni**: If possible, try to connect with alumni of SVCTE's electrical program. They can provide insights into their experiences, whether they were able to secure pre-apprenticeships or job placements, and how well the program prepared them.
4. **Industry Connections**: Investigate if SVCTE has connections with local electrical contractors, unions, or apprenticeship programs. Networking opportunities and partnerships can be crucial for job placement.
5. **Job Placement Services**: Inquire about the school's job placement services or career counseling. They should be able to provide guidance on finding pre-apprenticeships or entry-level positions in the electrical field.
6. **Credentials and Licensing**: Find out if the program helps you meet any licensing or certification requirements for electricians in your area. Some states require electricians to be licensed, so ensure that the training aligns with those standards.
7. **Apprenticeship Opportunities**: Research the availability of apprenticeships in your area. Many electricians start as apprentices, and SVCTE should be able to guide you on this path if they have a credible program.
8. **Online Reviews and Testimonials**: Look for online reviews and testimonials from students who have attended SVCTE's electrical program. Their experiences can provide valuable insights.
9. **Talk to Instructors**: Reach out to instructors or program coordinators at SVCTE. Ask them about the success rates of their students in securing pre-apprenticeships or jobs after completing the program.
10. **Visit the Facility**: If possible, visit SVCTE in person. This will give you a chance to see the facilities, meet staff, and get a feel for the learning environment.
Remember that success in the field of electrical work often depends on a combination of formal education, hands-on training, and building a strong professional network. Make sure that SVCTE's program aligns with your career goals and offers the support and resources needed to kickstart your career as an electrician.