On Thursday, November 14, 2024, two of IECRM’s finest were recognized at the seventh annual Colorado Apprenticeship Awards, hosted by leaders from workforce and apprenticeship communities. These prestigious awards recognize individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the development and success of apprenticeships in Colorado.
- David Scott of Encore Electric was awarded the Apprenticeship Champion Award. (https://youtu.be/78GhgfzYa9U)
- Cal Blair, a dedicated IECRM instructor, received the Apprenticeship Mentor Award.
(https://youtu.be/0DMfyxnYUkc)
Additionally, The Master’s Apprentice, one of IECRM’s valued partners, was recognized for its efforts as an exceptional apprenticeship partner.
Celebrating Excellence in Apprenticeships
The Apprenticeship Champion Award honors individuals who demonstrate extraordinary advocacy and leadership in promoting apprenticeship programs, paving the way for workforce development and career success. David Scott’s work at Encore Electric has transformed lives by fostering meaningful career pathways and expanding opportunities in the electrical industry.
The Apprenticeship Mentor Award highlights individuals who guide, inspire, and mentor apprentices to excel in their careers. Cal Blair’s commitment to IECRM apprentices is unmatched, as he dedicates his time and expertise to shaping the next generation of skilled electricians.
These awards come at a special time as IECRM was gearing up to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, November 18–22, a nationwide observance highlighting the importance of apprenticeships in preparing a skilled workforce and strengthening our economy.
A Win for Apprenticeship Partners
The Master’s Apprentice, an IECRM partner, also received recognition for its outstanding contributions to apprenticeship training. This organization plays a critical role in preparing individuals for careers in the skilled trades, with a focus on empowering young adults through education, training, and mentorship.
National Apprenticeship Week at IECRM
The awards served as an inspiring kickoff for IECRM’s National Apprenticeship Week events. The week included an Open House on November 21, giving the community a chance to explore career opportunities in the electrical industry, and an Apprentice Appreciation Week to celebrate the hard work of current apprentices.
IECRM’s Commitment to Apprenticeships
IECRM is the Rocky Mountain region’s leading electrical apprenticeship training provider and trade association for the electrical contracting industry. With over 40 years of experience, IECRM is committed to equipping apprentices with the skills they need to thrive in their careers, offering a nationally recognized four-year apprenticeship program that combines classroom learning and on-the-job training.
Quotes from the Evening
- “David Scott and Cal Blair represent the heart of what makes apprenticeships impactful,” said Marilyn Akers Stansbury, CEO of IECRM. “Their dedication to developing our workforce and mentoring the next generation inspires us all.”
- “Being recognized as a mentor is an honor, but it’s really about the apprentices themselves and the potential they bring to the future of our industry,” shared Cal Blair.
- David Scott echoed the sentiment: “Apprenticeships create opportunity—not just for individuals but for the entire community. It’s an incredible privilege to be part of that process.”
About IECRM
IECRM is a nonprofit trade association and the largest electrical apprenticeship training program in the Rocky Mountain region, training over 3,500 electrical apprentices and licensed electricians annually. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and advocacy, IECRM is shaping the future of the electrical industry.
