Workforce Under Construction

In a recent article published in a local publication in Indiana, the story of Russell Eastman showed how craft training can clear a path to a successful future many never imagine could be possible. With the help of Associated Builders and Contractors Indiana/Kentucky Chapter and an internship with Gaylor Electric, Eastman was able to take hold of the opportunity to begin a career when he needed it the most.

Russell Eastman turned his senior-year internship into a full-time job at Gaylor Electric. (Photo by Cindy Benedict)

When Eastman’s school attendance started slipping and he was facing issues at home, an at-risk coordinator at Noblesville High School (NHS), Deanna Cummings, introduced Eastman to an internship program offered at Gaylor Electric. After working as a part-time intern for the company and finishing his senior year at NHS, he was hired full-time and set out to begin an electrical apprenticeship program at ABC.

“Eastman is a hard worker, is good with his hands and is clearly liked on the Gaylor floor. He is grateful for this chance to turn things around. Here was a kid who could have easily slipped through the cracks. Without options and with his circumstances, his future would have been accidental. Now he has a pathway to a good job and can get established in Noblesville.”

Eastman will work full-time, study part-time and in four years he’ll have experience, his Journeyman card, and an associate degree from Vincennes University.

Read the full article here.