FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IEC Chesapeake Apprentices Recognized at White House for Exemplary Journeys through Apprenticeship Program

Nashville, TN, November 18, 2024 – The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) proudly celebrates Malik Myles and Jonathan Rafael Viera, two exceptional apprentices from IEC Chesapeake, who have been invited to the White House on November 18 during National Apprenticeship Week. These apprentices are recognized for their achievements through the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Apprenticeship Ambassador Initiative. This initiative, designed to expand and diversify Registered Apprenticeships nationwide, showcases individuals and organizations that embody the values of apprenticeship programs in preparing a strong, skilled workforce.

Malik Myles began his electrical apprenticeship journey with IEC Chesapeake’s “School to Apprentice” AMP cohort for the 2022-2023 school year, where he gained industry experience while completing his high school education. Despite balancing AP classes, athletics, and rigorous on-the-job training, Malik demonstrated outstanding dedication by maintaining perfect attendance and earning a 95% in his first year of instruction. His commitment and resilience shone through as he navigated challenges early in his apprenticeship. When his initial employer faced a slowdown, IEC Chesapeake provided timely support, helping Malik secure a position with Colonial Electric, where he has flourished, becoming both a mentor and advocate for apprenticeships.

In addition to excelling in his apprenticeship, Malik was honored with the 2023 Maryland Youth Apprenticeship Award, presented by Maryland Governor Wes Moore. He further represented IEC Chesapeake on a panel with U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and Maryland Secretary of Labor Portia Wu, advocating for the benefits of apprenticeships as a career pathway. These achievements led to his nomination to the Apprentice Trailblazer Initiative, and ultimately, his invitation to the White House, where he will stand as an advocate for apprenticeships during National Apprenticeship Week.

Joining Malik in receiving national recognition is Jonathan Rafael Viera, an apprentice with the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority, currently in his fourth year of electrical
training. Jonathan is also completing his Related Instruction with IEC Chesapeake, embodying the dedication and skill required to thrive in the electrical field.

The success of apprentices like Malik and Jonathan demonstrates the strength of IEC’s commitment to the merit shop philosophy. IEC’s apprenticeship programs provide aspiring electricians the opportunity to earn as they learn, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to workforce development and the skilled trades.

IEC National and IEC Chesapeake are proud to celebrate these apprentices. Through IEC’s commitment to the merit shop model, the organization continues to empower talented apprentices to excel, grow, and inspire the next generation in the electrical industry.