IECRM Leads the Nation in Tackling the Skilled Labor Shortage – Training Hundreds of Electricians to Power the Workforce Every Year
On Saturday, June 7, 2025, Independent Electrical Contractors Rocky Mountain (IECRM) celebrated its largest-ever graduating class of 276 apprentice electricians. The ceremony was held at the Omni Interlocken in Broomfield, Colorado, with over 1,000 attendees, including family, friends, instructors, and employers. The event was also live-streamed for those unable to attend. The previously recorded livestream is available to view online at: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=jEmMmz1SvqVQR_H1&t=2211.
“Powering Our Future Forward” – Marilyn Akers Stansbury, CEO, IECRM
“Celebrating our largest graduating class in IECRM history is a true testament to the strength and resilience of our apprentices and the vital role they play in Colorado’s future. These 276 graduates represent the next generation of leaders in our industry, and we couldn’t be more proud to support their journey into the skilled workforce.”
“Skilled Labor is Precious” – David Scott, IECRM Board President
David Scott, Construction Industry Advocate for Encore Electric and IECRM Board President reminded graduates that “skilled labor is precious.” With 27 years in HR, he emphasized apprenticeship’s ability to transform lives.
“In a rapidly growing Colorado, nothing moves without electricity — and electricity doesn’t move without you,” he said. “The future of work is apprenticeship — and you are that future,” Scott said.
View David’s speech here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=wzMCXeLAF2jTGijl&t=2787
A Message from IEC National President Troy Corrigan: “You Are Well-Prepared for Success”
Troy Corrigan, IEC National Board President, delivered a pre-recorded message congratulating the graduates and encouraging them to leave their mark on the world. “With the strong curriculum and training you’ve received, you are well-prepared for success,” said Corrigan, describing the electrical trade as a rewarding career that can take them anywhere. He concluded by welcoming them to the IEC Alumni family. Watch Troy Corrigan’s message here: https://vimeo.com/1088564152?share=copy#t=0.
“You Are the Elite” – Janet Martin
Janet Martin, VP of Bret’s Electric and Immediate Past President of IEC National, likened electricians to the Marines: “first in, last out.” She applauded the graduates’ debt-free completion of 8,000 training hours and urged them to stay educated and be mentors.
“You are now part of the most elite of all the trades… and the IEC family will be with you every step of the way,” said Martin.
View Janet’s speech here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=ocinNBB0qKf6fz8h&t=3388
“It’s Your Race to Run” – Karla Inspires Graduates to Take the Baton and Lead
Karla Nugent, Chief Revenue Officer and Founding Partner of Weifield Group Electrical Contracting delivered an inspiring message to graduates using a symbolic relay baton to emphasize the importance of building relationships, showing up as your best self, and embracing lifelong learning by staying curious and proactive.
“I encourage you to take this opportunity and make the most of it,” said Karla. “Make a plan for your electrical career – and work the plan. And remember… you can have a big impact and make our industry better. We hand the baton to you, and it’s your race to run!”
View Karla’s speech here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=HOwIBZ8aBGmP50AI&t=4472
Honoring Those Who Teach the Trade – A Message from Annette Gauna, IECRM Training Manager
Annette Gauna, IECRM’s Training Manager, reminded the class that “no one gets here alone,” and celebrated the role of instructors, mentors, and supporters.
“Our instructors are licensed professionals who work full time and still show up to mentor and inspire the next generation of electricians. Being an IECRM instructor takes time, passion, and a whole lot of heart,” said Gauna.
View Annette’s speech here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=KUEBVVB9XagQOp1u&t=4062
Instructor Milestones:
- 5 Years: Mike McDonald, Greg Thomas
- 15 Years: Mike Neuschwanger
- 25 Years: Rich Castellano
Celebrating Excellence – Paul Lingo, IECRM Training Director
Top Students – 4th Year:
Will Coggswell, Ian Cullen, Joel Day – Weifield Group Electrical Contracting
Jordan Steigerwalt – Lakewood Electric Company
Daniel Waldvogle – Independent
Connor French, Julian Hernandez – Encore Electric
Gabriel Daily – Allstar Electrical Services
Robert Deden – Carlton Electric
Paul Lingo recognized the winners of the IECRM 4th-Year Wire-Off Competition:
- 1st Place – Will Coggswell, Weifield Group Electrical Contracting
- 2nd Place – Wyatt Smith, Davis Electric
- 3rd Place – Benjamin Morrow, LEI Companies
“Will Coggswell will represent IECRM at the National Apprentice of the Year competition this September at the IEC National Convention in Phoenix, AZ. Congratulations!” said Lingo.
Click here to view the video of the 4th-Year Top Students recognition: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=lNYHsol5JNsak5UZ&t=5174
Click here to view the video of the Wire-Off placement winners recognition: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=V2V_lEmSkgvScE0W&t=5305
Milwaukee Women in Power Award – Honoring Rachel Smith
Abby Moravek presented the Milwaukee Women in Power Award to Rachel Smith of Duro Electric. Rachel’s commitment to safety, growth, and mentorship has made her a standout among peers.
This award honors her impact during her apprenticeship and her role in inspiring future generations of women in the electrical trade.
View the video here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=uwXDqMpKckKvt5jx&t=5495
Salutatorian Address – Robert Deden, Carlton Electric
Robert emphasized the value of lifelong learning and the lasting impact of apprenticeship. He encouraged his classmates to face challenges confidently and honored those who supported their journey.
“By doing these four years of school, you have given up your free time but, in return, have received something that no one can take away from you: knowledge,” said Deden.
View Robert’s speech here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=jhFwjtFOoxY-DoDK&t=5696
Valedictorian Address – Matthew Wainwright, Duro Electric
Matthew thanked instructors, family, employers, and peers for their support. He highlighted the rising demand for electricians and expressed pride in their shared achievement.
“Our class is ready to light up lives—across Colorado and beyond,” said Wainwright.
View Matthew’s speech here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=n_DAm-heZ-SE84iO&t=5945
Southwire Top Gun Award – Honoring Matthew Wainwright
Matthew Wainwright was presented with the 2025 Southwire Top Gun Award, given to students who go above and beyond. Southwire, a steadfast supporter of the IECRM Apprenticeship Program, provides essential tools and solutions for success.
View the video here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=uwXDqMpKckKvt5jx&t=5495
A Reflection – Paul Lingo
Lingo, IECRM’s Training Director, reflected on his 13-year journey with IECRM and once being in the graduates’ shoes. He praised the growth of the program, including online and Spanish-language offerings, and credited families, instructors, and mentors for their support.
“Though your apprenticeship has ended, your journey as a skilled electrician is just beginning. Remember: POWER IN IS POWER OUT, and as Mr. Chris Shipp says—the light at the end of the tunnel is there because YOU installed it,” said Lingo.
View Paul’s speech here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RpqtYSn6vYU?si=gFPks6xKey8XEyo0&t=8202
Click the following link to view all photos of graduation: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1566138674540524&type=3
Partners in Education
- Emily Griffith Technical College
- Metro State University
- CSU Global
- The State Apprenticeship Agency, Colorado Office of the Future of Work
Thank You, 2025 IECRM Graduation Sponsors!
The venue, breakfast, gifts, and program were made possible by IECRM’s Contractor Members and Industry Partner sponsors.
To learn about a career in the electrical industry and join the esteemed group of IECRM Electrical Apprenticeship Alumni, visit iecrm.org/apprenticeship-program.
