From sweeping floors to leading crews on the Freedom Tower, Josh Nieves shares his powerful journey through the IBEW apprenticeship program and into the heart of the skilled trades. This episode dives into union vs non-union paths, electrician salary progression, and how mentorship can change everything
Andrew Brown sits down with Josh Nieves, IBEW electrician and Workforce Development Manager at Miller Electric, to unpack the real story behind building a fulfilling skilled trades career. From navigating union apprenticeship programs to the difference between an installer vs. electrician, Josh offers insight for both aspiring tradespeople and industry veterans. Whether you’re trying to get into the IBEW, debating union vs non-union pathways, or exploring your long-term earning potential as an electrician, this conversation delivers real, no-fluff advice from someone who’s walked the path—and is now paying it forward.
IN THIS EPISODE:
(00:01:00) - The national shortage of 80,000 electricians annually
(00:05:00) - How to get into the IBEW apprenticeship program
(00:10:30) - Electrician salary progression and earning six figures
(00:20:00) - Josh’s 9/11 story and how it shaped his trades career
(00:31:00) - The leap from journeyman to master electrician
(00:47:00) - Why mentorship, culture, and advocacy are vital in the trades industry.
Key Takeaways:
There are multiple ways to enter the trades industry, including through open shop work and IBEW union programs don’t give up if you’re denied the first time.
Electrician salary progression is real starting at ~$20/hour, but growing rapidly into six figures with overtime, experience, and credentials.
The skilled trades industry needs better mentorship, not just training, to help new tradespeople succeed long-term.
Culture and leadership matter Josh shares how great companies create supportive environments that retain top talent.
About the Guest:
Josh Nieves is a master electrician, entrepreneur, and the Workforce Development Manager at Miller Electric. With nearly two decades in the trades industry, Josh has worked on landmark projects including the Freedom Tower, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building. A proud member of IBEW Local 3, Josh is now on a mission to grow the next generation of electricians through education, mentorship, and public trades advocacy.
Keywords:
IBEW apprenticeship program, how to become an electrician, electrician union vs non-union, skilled trades career path, electrician salary progression, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Josh Nieves, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Industry Experts, Contractors, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory Council
Resource Links:
Website: https://www.mecojax.com/
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshnieves/
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