Modernizing Electrical Industry Training: Computer-Mediated Learning
Channel: ElectricTV
Date: 2024-02-26

Located in the vibrant tech hub of Seattle, the Puget Sound Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (PSEJATC) stands as a beacon of opportunity for NECA Contractors, who employ IBEW members, in a city renowned for its technological prowess and scenic beauty. With graduating apprentices having worked on projects for prestigious companies like Amazon and Microsoft, Seattle boasts one of the largest limited energy programs in the USA, offering abundant prospects for growth and development.

However, amidst the city's expansive tech landscape, a significant challenge arises: the demand for skilled tradesmen and women outpaces the available workforce. In response to this pressing need, PSEJATC has embraced innovative solutions, notably the Computer-Mediated Learning (CML) model.

The CML model revolutionizes curriculum delivery by enabling apprentices to access course materials remotely before attending in-person classes. This approach not only accommodates the demands of the Pacific Northwest’s tech-savvy population but also optimizes hands-on learning experiences in state-of-the-art labs. By allowing students to complete classroom work at home, the CML model ensures they remain on track and well-prepared, mitigating the risk of falling behind. The collaborative efforts of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) have played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the CML model, through their national training arm, the electrical training ALLIANCE (etA). 

Big picture: these entities navigate the challenges posed by rapid growth and evolving industry demands, fostering a supportive environment for growth in membership numbers, addressing skilled labor shortages in the future.

The results speak for themselves: instructors have observed a marked improvement in student comprehension and performance, with notable enhancements in test scores. By embracing the CML model, PSEJATC Seattle not only addresses the critical need for skilled labor but also sets a benchmark for innovative educational practices in the electrical industry.

In conclusion, Seattle's PSEJATC stands as a testament to the transformative power of the CML model in meeting the demands of a dynamic and tech-driven economy. Through strategic partnerships with groups like NECA and IBEW, and a commitment to excellence, PSEJATC continues to empower apprentices to succeed in the ever-evolving landscape of the electrical industry.

Through strategic leadership from NECA and IBEW, and a commitment to excellence, PSEJATC continues to empower apprentices to succeed in the ever-evolving landscape of the electrical industry.

Chapters:
00:00 - 00:52 - Intro
00:52 - 01:20 - The Challenge of Scaling the Workforce
01:20 - 02:52 - Enter Computer-Mediated Learning (CML) 
02:52 - 03:50 - Spending More Time in the Labs and Increasing Flexibility
03:50 - 04:26 - Well Rounded Apprentices
04:26 - 04:35 - Outro

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Who Are We?
Electric TV is a jointly funded online video platform by NECA and the IBEW where we produce short video features on the work of local NECA contractors and IBEW craftsmen and women. At ETV, we're looking to showcase stories that include NECA & IBEW working together to create the best electrical teams in the nation. 

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