Oak Ridge Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee

Apprentice electrician DJ gained a new appreciation for Y-12 after he was hired in December 2024. He knew working at the plant was a good job opportunity; what he didn’t expect was just how quickly he would feel that the work was more than a job. Working at Y-12 inside production areas in the middle of a nuclear renaissance has given DJ a fresh perspective behind the blue line.

Read more: https://www.y12.doe.gov/news/blog/building-future-craft-perspective

Last Thursday was a special evening as we celebrated our newest class of Journeyman Wiremen and recognized the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice it took for each of them to reach this milestone. Watching these apprentices top out and officially begin the next chapter of their careers is always something we are proud to witness.

The night was made even more meaningful as we took time to honor our classmate and friend, Bryson Trentham. Bryson’s passion for the trade, his kindness, and the way he carried himself left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. It was truly an honor and a blessing to have Andy and Jennifer with us to accept Bryson’s honorary diploma on his behalf.

While Bryson may no longer walk beside us, his legacy will continue to live on through the lives he touched, the example he set, and the community he cared so deeply about. We will always remember him as one of our own.

Congratulations to our newest JW’s — and thank you for allowing us to share such a meaningful night together. More pictures to come!

⚡️ John Smith’s 4th year class had their last night of class last night! We are so proud of them all! We will miss having these guys around! Help us congratulate them on this great accomplishment. ⚡️

Left to right
Steven Cruise, John Smith, Caleb Arwood, Jacob Goble, Zach Rees, JoBen Terry, Isaac Calbaugh, Jon Hughel, Dalton Jinkins, Koby Dyer

Missing: Dalton Bacon, Joel Cushard

The open bay was busy tonight as some of our 1st year apprentices put in work during a conduit bending lab💪

Hands-on training, real skills, and a whole lot of progress happening. Proud to see the next generation showing up ready to learn and get better every day.

⚡️ Casey Lee’s 4th year class had their last night of class on Thursday! We are so proud of them all! We are sure going to miss having these guys around! Help us congratulate them on this great accomplishment. ⚡️

Left to right
Casey Lee, Chase Haney, Sam Lowe, Ryan Scott, Luke Thompson, Chandler Reed, Brandon Dalton, Chase Johnson, Joseph Paul, Hunter White, Karson Scott, Chandler VanNatter, Keldan Halvorson!

Brad and Tessa are set up at the Roane Co School career day! We love any opportunity to talk about the trades. ⚡️

Looking to apply …… The application process starts online at www.orejatc.org

Brad Hales’ first-year class spent the evening sharpening their conduit bending skills and putting in the hands-on work it takes to master the trade.

“Union labor isn’t just about a job — it’s about building a future with skill, pride, and quality craftsmanship.”

Eli McAbees 1st year class getting some hands-on lab time today using the high bay mobile classroom.

Nothing beats learning by doing and building real skills.

“Train hard, learn it right, and quality work will follow.”

⚡️ Spent the morning in Cumberland County talking with students at SMHS and CCHS about their futures!

If you’re thinking about what comes next, don’t overlook the skilled trades. You can earn while you learn, build real-world skills, and step into a high-demand career without piling up debt. Our communities need electricians, welders, plumbers, HVAC techs, and more — and the opportunities are right here at home.

Your future is bright — consider building it with your hands and your talent.

Visit our website to apply www.orejatc.org