WCCD Partners with Diamond -R- Electric for Electrician Apprenticeship Program

Present at the program’s launch are (l to r) Barbara Steger, WCCD Adult Education Director; Michael Hannon, WCCD Electrical Technology instructor; Martha Compton, WCCD Associate Dean of Career Technical Education; Rob Rhoades, Diamond -R- Electric; Josh Laney Director, Alabama Office of Apprenticeship, Joshua Soles, WCCD Electrical Technology Student; Joe Johnson, WCCD Director of Workforce Development.

Wallace Community College-Dothan (WCCD) and industry partner Diamond -R-Electric are pleased to announce the launch of Alabama’s first state-recognized Electrician Apprenticeship program. This initiative has been officially approved by the Alabama Electrician Board to count for 2,000 of the 8,000 required journeyman hours. The Electrician Apprenticeship program was announced at the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Wiregrass Professional Series – State of the Workforce event, where Josh Laney, Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship, gave the keynote address.

The establishment of this program involved close coordination with state representatives and highlights the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and local businesses in fostering skill development and employment readiness.

“We are thrilled to partner with Diamond -R- Electric in offering this innovative apprenticeship program,” said Martha Compton, WCCD Associate Dean of Career and Technical Education. “The support from the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship has been tremendous. This program sets a new standard for the state, giving students hands-on training that not only builds their skills but also moves them closer to journeyman certification, significantly enhancing their career pathways.”

“This apprenticeship program is a game-changer for our industry and the local community,” said Rob Rhoades, owner of Diamond -R- Electric. “By partnering with Wallace Community College, we’re not only training future electricians but also investing in the future workforce of the Wiregrass region. This collaboration ensures that our apprentices receive real-world, hands-on experience, laying the foundation for successful, lasting careers.”

WCCD Interim President Keith Phillips noted that he is deeply proud of this achievement and the opportunities it will create for our students and the broader community.

The partnership is expected to strengthen the local workforce by creating a pipeline of skilled electricians ready to contribute to the economic growth of the Wiregrass region.

For more information on the apprenticeship program, please contact Martha Compton or visit www.wallace.edu.