Breaking Barriers: The Journey of a Trailblaze Female Electrician, Oshkosh, Wisconsin

Brooke has carved out an impressive career in an industry traditionally dominated by men, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes. Her journey from an electrical helper to a leadership role at Faith Technologies Inc. (FTI) showcases determination, resilience, and a passion for the trade.

Early Beginnings

In June 2017, at the age of 23, Brooke began her career with Faith Technologies as an electrical helper. This initial step into the electrical industry marked the beginning of a path filled with hard work, continuous learning, and a drive to succeed.

Entering the Apprenticeship Program

By October 2017, she had entered the apprenticeship program at Faith Technologies University (FTU), earning the title of Apprentice I. This program required a balance between hands-on job site work and classroom learning every two months, providing a robust foundation for her skills and knowledge.

Navigating Challenges During the Pandemic

In her third year of apprenticeship, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, causing a shift to online learning. Despite the disruption, she adapted to virtual classes and continued her education, demonstrating flexibility and resilience.

Diverse Field Experience

Throughout her apprenticeship, [Electrician’s Name] gained diverse field experience across various states:

• Preconstruction/assembly work in Neenah, WI
• A data center project in Utah
• A demolition job in Arkansas
• A paper mill in Georgia
• Solar work in Minnesota
• Control wiring at Plexus in Appleton
• A long-term project at Mercury Marine in Fond Du Lac, WI, handling a range of electrical needs from remodels to new building additions.

Transitioning to Leadership Roles

In January 2022, she transitioned to a Leased Labor Talent Partner/Recruiter role, where she managed temp labor and assisted with internal office roles. This experience broadened her understanding of organizational needs and talent management.

Stepping into Workforce Management

A year later, in June 2023, she took on a Workforce Manager role within Excellerate, focusing on apprentices. Her responsibilities included hiring, disciplinary actions, mentoring, and ensuring apprentices completed their courses. This role allowed her to advocate for and support newer team members, reflecting her commitment to fostering growth in others.

Current Role and Future Aspirations

In April 2024, she accepted the role of Excellerate Licensed Electrician II. This position involves close collaboration with the production superintendent, overseeing team members on the production floor, managing hiring and disciplinary actions, conducting orientations and trainings, and handling miscellaneous projects.

Reflecting on her journey, Brooke never anticipated the career path she would take within FTI. She entered with the goal of completing her apprenticeship and moving into an office role due to a preference against traveling. However, her career has surpassed her expectations, and she is excited about what the future holds.

Brooke’s story is a powerful example of breaking barriers and excelling in a male-dominated field. Her journey underscores the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and mentorship. As she continues to pave the way for future generations, her impact on the industry and those around her is undeniable.

Call to Action

Support women in trades and recognize the value of diversity in all professions. By sharing stories like Brooke’s, we can inspire more women to pursue careers in fields where they are underrepresented, creating a more inclusive and dynamic workforce.