In a world often dominated by men, one California congregation is igniting change with a groundbreaking program designed to empower teenage girls through education in electrical work. The ‘Firefly’ program, recently launched by St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, seeks to equip girls aged 14 to 17 with essential electrical skills, setting them on a path towards a bright future.
A Program Born of Determination
Valeria Lucas, a young woman who ventured into the male-dominated world of electrical work, is the inspiration behind the Firefly program. After taking electrical courses at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, she felt a shift in her comfort level within this traditionally male field. Her father, Alberto Lucas, an experienced electrician, had longed to teach younger individuals the ropes of electrical work, and this dream has now come to fruition. Thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Episcopal-affiliated Girls’ Friendly Society California, the Firefly program was brought to life.
Bridging the Gender Gap
The Firefly program aims to break barriers by encouraging young girls to explore electrical work. It operates once a month for two years and provides hands-on experience in the industry. While the first class started on October 14, enrollment is still open, giving young women plenty of opportunities to step into this electric world. Alberto Lucas, a devoted member of St. Stephen’s for over two decades, leads the program, with Valeria Lucas serving as the co-coordinator and interpreter for her Spanish-speaking father.
The Firefly Program’s Curriculum
The Firefly program boasts a diverse curriculum, addressing various topics each month. The course will delve into the fundamentals of electricity, different wiring methods, emergency power equipment, lighting types, and safety procedures, among other crucial aspects. This comprehensive approach aims to equip young girls with both the practical skills and the confidence needed to thrive in a field traditionally dominated by men.
Bright Futures Ahead
The ultimate goal of the Firefly program is to prepare these young girls for a future in electrical work. By instilling a strong foundation during their teenage years, they will be well-prepared to enter a full-time electrical apprenticeship program once they turn 18, the minimum age for apprenticeship qualification in California. Even if they opt for different career paths, these newfound skills could prove invaluable, potentially opening doors to fields like electrical engineering.
Demand for Electricians in California
California, with its booming electrical industry, offers enticing prospects for future electricians. U.S. By 2022, the average annual salary for electricians in the state will be $78,140, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. California stands out as having the most jobs for electricians in the entire country. When cities are considered, Los Angeles, Long Beach and Anaheim rank second in electrician employment, behind New York, Newark, and New Jersey.
Preparing for a Glowing Future
The demand for electricians in California, especially in areas like Hollywood, is soaring. Factors contributing to this surge include the increasing installation of solar panels and the extensive electrical work required for Los Angeles’ preparations to host the 2028 Summer Olympics. IBEW Local 11, the Los Angeles chapter of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers labor union, plays a pivotal role in advising the city’s Olympics committee on sustainability efforts.
A Beacon of Opportunity
The Firefly program’s purpose extends beyond initial education; it aims to create a pathway for girls to further their knowledge and education in the electrical field. The program’s funds from the Girls’ Friendly Society California will also facilitate field trips to local locations, providing participants with hands-on learning experiences. Guest speakers from the electrical industry will occasionally share their insights with the girls.
The Firefly program is currently accepting applications, with a modest fee of $50 for a two-year program. Scholarships are available for those in need, and St. Stephen’s will provide safety equipment, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder participation. Importantly, one does not need to be a parishioner of St. Stephen’s to enroll, making this opportunity accessible to all.
In conclusion, the Firefly program represents a shining beacon of hope for young girls, offering them a chance to illuminate their futures through the power of education and the field of electrical work. As California’s demand for skilled electricians continues to surge, these young women have the potential to make their mark and shine brightly in a traditionally male-dominated profession.