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Next-Gen Insights with Austin Hays, Claypool Electric, Inc.

⏱️ 16:05 🎤 Ellen Parson, Austin Hays
AUDIO EPISODE
Next-Gen Insights with Austin Hays, Claypool Electric, Inc.
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Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Introduction & Sponsor
    The episode begins with an introduction to the podcast and a thank you to the sponsor, IEM, highlighting their custom manufacturing capabilities.
  • 0:39
    Welcome and Guest Introduction
    Host Ellen Parson welcomes listeners to EC&M On Air's Next-Gen Insights, introducing Austin Hays, an EC&M 30 Under 30 All-Star and Apprenticeship Coordinator at Claypool Electric.
  • 5:22
    Austin's Background & Role
    Austin Hays shares his career path, starting at 17 with Claypool Electric and progressing to his current role as Apprenticeship Coordinator, overseeing a comprehensive training program.
  • 10:05
    Path to Electrical Field
    Austin discusses what inspired him to enter the electrical trade, influenced by his father's advice and a hands-on experience wiring a garage.
  • 12:34
    Favorite Projects & Teaching
    Austin talks about his preference for challenging commercial and industrial projects, including hospitals, colleges, and water treatment plants, and what he enjoys teaching.
  • 14:52
    Advice for Young Professionals
    Austin offers advice for aspiring electricians, emphasizing the value of a trade career, strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and seizing opportunities for growth.
  • 17:12
    Essential Training & Skills
    Austin highlights the importance of mastering fundamental electrical concepts, the National Electrical Code, and developing crucial soft skills like communication.
  • 20:20
    Technology & Pet Peeves
    Austin discusses the increasing use of 3D models in construction and his biggest pet peeve on job sites: lack of teamwork among trades.
  • 25:52
    Work-Life Balance
    Austin explains how Claypool Electric supports a healthy work-life balance and the importance of asking for help to manage workload.
  • 31:34
    Rapid-Fire Questions & Conclusion
    The episode concludes with a series of rapid-fire questions, revealing Austin's personal preferences and a final thank you from the host.

Speakers

E
Ellen Parson
Host — Editor-in-Chief of EC&M
A
Austin Hays
Apprenticeship Coordinator at Claypool Electric

Key Takeaways

✦

Prioritize foundational electrical knowledge, including code book usage, wire stripping, proper splices, and conduit bending math, as these form the base for all advanced skills.

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Cultivate strong soft skills, especially communication, as effective interaction with various trades on a job site is crucial for avoiding costly issues and delays.

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Embrace continuous learning and be open to new challenges; the electrical trade offers diverse career paths and advancement opportunities beyond traditional roles.

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Leverage available technology like 3D modeling software for project coordination, becoming familiar with different platforms to adapt to various project requirements.

✦

Foster a strong work ethic and a positive attitude, as these qualities are key to success and advancement in the electrical profession, even without a college degree.

✦

Don't be afraid to ask for help or clarify priorities when managing workload to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout.

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