In Honor of National Apprenticeship Week

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. FULCHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Apprenticeship Week.

In my home state of Idaho, more than 1,500 students participate in registered apprenticeships. This is a jump of fifty percent in just the last two years. More than 280 Idaho companies participate in apprenticeship programs. They include companies like Micron Technology, that enroll about 350 people every year in their apprenticeship program. But success in apprenticeship programs is about more than numbers. Take the story of Bryan Brandel, who comes from my hometown of Meridian. Bryan grew up watching his father and grandfather work as linemen for the phone company. Bryan seemed to be following in their footsteps when he enrolled in a Vocational Technology program at Meridian High School. He learned practical skills, including how to weld. As Bryan was completing high school, his father and grandfather encouraged him to pursue a traditional four-year degree. He finished his degree; but wasn't sure what to do next. He went on to graduate school, still not sure what he was going to do. Months before completing his dissertation, Bryan realized that he did not want to pursue Ecology or Biology. He thought about his passion. That took him back to his high school Vocational Technology program. He made the bold step of becoming a lineman in the electric utility industry. After finishing school at Northwest Lineman College, he started working for Idaho Power, completing their lineman apprenticeship program. He obtained a journeyman position on a line crew, and today is a line crew foreman. Bryan's story is typical of the many young adults in our communities who follow traditional education paths that might not be right for them. Because of his experience, Bryan actively promotes apprenticeships for Idaho Power. He speaks to high school students about the wonderful opportunities they bring. His story is truly inspirational. Apprenticeship programs create good-paying jobs, allow students to complete programs debt-free, and provide a sense of accomplishment. They give Idahoans like Bryan, and all Americans, opportunity and purpose in our market economy.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source