Guillermo Chavez Barajas spent all four of his years at Anaheim High in its Building Industry Technology Academy, a program that trains students for careers in construction and building design.
So he’s set to continue his work in the electrical field right away.
Guillermo Chavez Barajas is one of the lead recruits for Simon Builders and will be continuing the trade after graduation. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)
“This has been a way for me to show my creativity and work with my hands,” Barajas said. “I was able to participate in building specific structures, including learning how to frame, which was my favorite part. This program has allowed us to gain connections with people and learn how to be compatible with others in a work area.”
Along with enrolling in the school’s BITA program, Barajas was also part of a program through the nonprofit Simon Builders that helps high school students and recent graduates gain construction experience through hands-on work in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, ventilation and more.
Once completed with the program, many students, including Barajas, have access to immediate employment in the construction trades or to extend their education with a state-approved apprenticeship program, certificate program or college degree program.
Barajas plans to enter the inside wireman union – those jobs specialize in connecting electrical systems from an outside power source to a specific facility, which was inspired by his work at the high school and through the Simon Builders program, he said.
And with his new industry connections and networking opportunities, Barajas said he never felt “weird” that he isn’t pursuing the same future path as so many of his peers. He’s got a good plan.
“That’s what I plan on doing until I retire,” he said, “if everything goes well.”
Related Articles
Foothill High Graduation 2024: Our best photos of the ceremony
Mission Viejo High Graduation 2024: Our best photos of the ceremony
Segerstrom High Graduation 2024: Our best photos of the ceremony
Fullerton Union High Graduation 2024: Our best photos of the ceremony
Beckman High Graduation 2024: Our best photos of the ceremony
Leave a Reply