The NIETC hosted its annual graduation dinner and awards ceremony on May 6, 2011 at the Airport Sheraton.

The evening included a formal dinner, followed by motivational remarks by industry leaders. Tim Gauthier, NECA Chapter Manager and Clif Davis, IBEW LU 48 Business Manager started the evening followed by a keynote address from Michael Mowrey, International IBEW Vice President from the 9th District.

The event continued with individual awards for outstanding performance in three disciplines of apprenticeship: inside wireman, limited residential wireman and limited energy technician. Diplomas followed as 129 graduates crossed the stage, including 18 minority and 13 female grads, receiving acknowledgment and some wonderful gifts from the apprenticeship program, as well as from industry sponsors such as Platt Electric Supply and Klein Tools.

This year marks the 82nd anniversary of the program and will also represent one of the largest graduating classes in quite some time. The program is proud to continue a tradition of excellence while improving the diversity of the membership.

The following graduates received awards for Outstanding Academic Achievement. These awards are for top GPA in all three of our programs.

• In the Residential program, in addition to perfect attendance over 3 years , 89.6 GPA - Shay Smith
• In the Sound and Communications program, 4 years, almost perfect attendance, 95.7 GPA - Sanoe Kanekoa
• In the Inside program, 5 years, perfect attendance, 96.7 GPA - Brian Winters

Dan Zigler was recognized in front of attendees as he received his award for competing in the 2010 Western States Electrical Contest. This is an annual contest held throughout the 8th and 9th District, with 25 to 30 contestants each year.

We congratulate all of our apprentices who completed and finished their NIETC apprenticeship in 2010 and commend them for this fine achievement.