For many high school seniors, the future feels like a distant "someday." But for Ben Volke, a senior in the Port Washington-Saukville School District, the future is happening right now. Through the CESA 6 Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program, Ben has traded the traditional classroom desk for the dynamic, real-world environment of J. Miller Electric.
Beyond the Classroom Walls
Ben is the first to admit that the standard "sit-down-at-a-desk" learning style wasn't the best fit for him.
"I'm a very hands-on learner. I like doing stuff with my hands, not just sitting down at a desk," Ben says. "I like being outside while working, too."
This self-awareness led him to the Youth Apprenticeship program, which allows students to gain paid, professional experience in a career field of interest while still in high school. At J. Miller Electric, Ben’s days are anything but sedentary. His responsibilities range from shop maintenance and organizing materials for journeymen to delivering essential parts to various job sites.
Real-World Impact: The Ozaukee Justice Center
One of the highlights of Ben’s apprenticeship so far was working on a major project at the Ozaukee Justice Center. This wasn't just "busy work"—Ben was an integral part of the team installing new light poles.
His tasks included:
Concrete Preparation: Using a vibrator tool to ensure there were no air bubbles in the fresh concrete sets.
Site Management: Removing cardboard forms from the light pole bases once the concrete had cured.
Team Collaboration: Working alongside concrete trucks and seasoned professionals.
"I felt like I was a real employee," Ben recalls. "I was just being a part of a bigger operation and not just being in the shop. I was around a couple other people, a big concrete truck—it felt like a bigger part of the job."
Looking Ahead: From Apprentice to Professional
The Youth Apprenticeship has done more than just teach Ben about electrical work; it has paved a clear path for his career. Ben plans to stay with J. Miller Electric full-time after graduation, with the goal of transitioning into a formal apprenticeship and eventually becoming a full-time journeyman.
How to Get Started
For students who share Ben’s passion for hands-on work, his advice is simple: take the first step.
Ben encourages interested students to contact Joel Evanson, the Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator. "Email him and tell him what you're interested about and what you want to do," Ben suggests. "He will help you reach out to employers or businesses that are looking for youth apprentices."