West Fargo tackles electricity shortages with in-house academy – Grand Forks Herald

WEST FARGO – One West Fargo electrical contractor is taking steps to address the shortage of electricians and ensure an adequate number of them are employed in the future.

Magnum Electric created an in-house education program after application rates for electricians dropped dramatically during the coronavirus pandemic.

PowerHouse is the first electrical trade school of its kind to offer day programs instead of night classes, with tuition fees covered by the company, the company said.

Manager/trainer Christian Aube said the program allows Magnum Electric to be more adaptable and inspire new generations to learn the trade.

He said that they are “trying to create an atmosphere and culture that welcomes young people and meets them wherever they are.”

Officially launched in August, PowerHouse is housed in a dedicated facility adjacent to Magnum Electric’s headquarters at 471 Christianson Drive W.

It offers a two-week pre-apprenticeship program that focuses on materials, tools, basic knowledge of the National Electrical Code, and hands-on laboratory experience.

Students assigned to the PowerHouse Apprenticeship Program begin paid on-the-job training and attend classes one weekday morning on site, averaging 16 hours of class per month.

This method differs from other technology school programs in which students often attend classes at night, once they have finished their regular work.

“The fact that it is included in their agenda in the work week allows us to address education when they are most attentive and most ready to learn,” Opp said.

Quinn Nowacki, 23, of Fargo, graduated from North Dakota State University with a degree in horticulture, but wasn’t sure about pursuing a career in the field.

They contacted Magnum Electric to see if the company had openings, learned about PowerHouse and were hired.

As an electrician’s apprentice, Nowacki learns while working with a licensed electrician.

In the classroom, emphasis is placed on electrical theory and understanding the industry code book.

“They throw everything at you so you have a good foundation to keep learning and gaining more skills,” Nowacki said.

Nowacki aims to obtain a master electrician’s license and teach the trade one day.

“They really set you up for success,” Nowacki said.

Dalton Honer, 23, of Moorhead, was working as an assistant general manager at a local restaurant when he decided to try PowerHouse.

“After four years, I can experience my job as a journeyman, and hopefully I can manage the jobs of a foreman,” he said.

PowerHouse class sizes are capped at about 20 students each year to ensure each student has adequate support and opportunities, Opp said.

With a full class list for 2024, applications for the next academic year will be accepted through March 1, 2025, he said.

The application review process includes an aptitude test and interview.

Prospective students can apply for the PowerHouse program at www.powerhouse-edu.com/powerhouse-application.

Anyone who has questions or wants additional information can contact Opp at christianopp@powerhouse-edu.com or 701-551-3240.