Full Onsite Classes Returning to IEC
Full Onsite Classes Returning to IEC
IEC recognizes that apprentices are struggling to complete the Electrical Apprenticeship Program this school year. Most of this challenge is due to the requirements that COVID-19 brings to us in keeping students appropriately spaced. With these challenges recognized IEC is taking the following steps to improve apprentice success and improve the learning environment.
The Board of Directors realized the immediate need to train apprentices in the classroom in person. To meet this need IEC is investing in additional classroom space in our office park. The additional classroom space means we will have all apprentice attending in person classes on November 30, 2020. Once the classrooms are ready IEC will require all students to return to in-person learning in the classroom to complete the 20.21 school year. The only exceptions are students enrolled in a full online class or those that have valid travel status. We believe students learn best when they are taught in person and we highly discourage travel status for apprentices unless it is absolutely necessary.
In addition to investing in new classroom space, IEC will hire a Quality Assurance Coordinator to work directly with instructors to provide effective lab time, enhance instruction methods and provide oversight of apprentice performance in the program.
Earlier this year IEC took steps to assure that all new instructors received effective training before getting in front of students to teach. IEC created the position and hired Assistant Instructors; these instructors provide additional support for instructors, receive training in curriculum and teaching techniques and help mentor students to greater success. As we return to in-person classes the Assistant Instructors will continue to provide the important resources in the classroom. If you or someone you know would like to join the IEC Instructor team please contact Todd Hawkins.
Thank You for your support of the IEC Apprenticeship Program. The Board of Directors, instructors and IEC staff acknowledge your trust and the awesome responsibility we have to turn out qualified merit shop electricians of the future. IEC strives to meet or exceed member expectations and we will do everything within our means to ensure your association provides exceptional training for your employees.
Sincerely,
Niel Dawson
IEC Executive Director
Todd Hawkins
Associate Executive Director