In Celebration: Reflections From NexTech Academy’s Electrical Program Graduates

“Hi, my name is Nathan McCloskey, and I entered this trade because my dad started his electrical career in residential work. Watching how passionate he was about his career inspired me to take the same career path. NexTech helped me discover more things about electrical work that I did not know, and that inspired me to learn more. It’s also helped me expand my knowledge on electrical work overall and has made me a better electrician.

I’ve also acquired a better attitude when coming into work; I look forward to connecting with my coworkers and customers. It has helped me come to work in a positive state of mind and makes me eager to help people with their electrical needs. NexTech helped me learn more about myself when it comes to my work ethic. It’s helped me realize that I am a hardworking individual and truly care about helping others.

NexTech has also surprised me by getting me excited about my career and goals. I’m eager to get my journeyman license to expand my knowledge on electrical and hold more responsibility in a work environment. The experience of going through the program has made me more friendly to the people around me and has helped me get to know different sides of myself.

My family and friends now come to me for electrical advice and trust me with electrical issues they encounter. Overall, NexTech has changed me as a person and has made me a stronger and more confident electrician.”

~ Nathan McCloskey

“My name is Alexis Banhidy-Neff. Before NexTech, I was working in medical research and very unhappy. I knew that I needed a job that kept me engaged and challenged my mind even more. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I either needed to go to college or look for a job in the trades.

My father was a roofer and I grew up around tradesmen. The idea of being a woman in the trades can be intimidating, though. However, with my dad’s words of encouragement giving me the push I needed, I quickly got over my fear and started applying for electrical apprenticeships.

I’m grateful that Clover Electric is the company that gave me this opportunity. They do so much for their employees, including providing opportunities with NexTech Academy. The employees are all very kind and willing to help me learn and answer my questions.

NexTech has given me the confidence to talk to customers, has helped me show consistently good work, and was critical in helping me learn how to become an electrician. I’ve applied everything I’ve learned from NexTech, and I continue to grow and develop further every day!”

-Alexis Banhidy-Neff