IEC of Utah’s Seventh Annual Apprenticeship Banquet was held on May 14, 2011. As we celebrated the accomplishments of the apprentices, it was our keynote speaker, Chad Hymas, who touched on the emotions of everyone in the room. Chad was one of the most motivating and inspiring speakers we have ever had, through his sense of humor, originality, and personal experiences, he left the apprentices with three important life lessons:

One – “Change a habit.” Create a new one! He challenged everyone when they left the banquet to stop at the store on their way home and get all the makings of a banana split. Get the kids up and enjoy them—“make a new habit.” Chad also gave the example of having to give up soda and change to water and cranberry juice. As well, he had to give up his beloved “Ropers” to slip on shoes.

Two – “Get up.” At this time Chad brought up two of the apprentices and had them drink out of a bottle of water. He then challenged them to drink out of the same bottle; however they were not allowed to use their hands. One of the points made by this demonstration was “don’t be afraid to ask for help.” Chad travels the world and is always getting help from complete strangers, no matter what the language or country.

Three – “Give more than is expected at all times, be it at home or work.” Chad gave the example of his dad leaving his job after his accident to run Chad’s ranch. He was living Chad’s dream for him.

He ended with a word to the wise—to the apprentice—SAFETY!!!! NEVER be in such a hurry that you do not practice safety first; it can change your life and hundreds of lives around you.

(Bio on speaker: On April 3, 2001, at the age of 27, Chad Hymas’ life changed instantaneously when a falling, one ton bale of hay broke his neck. He was pronounced a quadriplegic, paralyzed from the chest down with limited function of his arms and hands. He is the author of the recently released Soaring to New Heights. He is a World Record wheelchair athlete and set a new world record by wheeling his chair from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas 513 miles in July 2003. He is also president of his own communications company.)

Over 144 attended the banquet on a beautiful evening at the Ft. Douglas Officers Club on the U of U Campus. The banquet was attended by apprentices with their significant others, parents/family guests, IEC contractor members, IEC officers and board members, distributors, and associate members

Kurt Jensen IEC of Utah president welcomed the group and provided the opening and closing remarks, reminding the apprentices that they still have one more step—take their journeyman exam and don’t give up until they pass.

Kevin Clubb, member of the State of Utah Electrical Board, also addressed the apprentices letting them know that the board is there to assist in anyway now or at any time during their career.

Roster of the 2011 Graduating Apprentices: