o provide specialized electricians tools for
students enrolled in Electrical Trades Technology classes at Seguin High School.
Seguin High School Electrical Trades Technology students will participate in
SkillsUSA-VICA district contests, February 7 11, in Waco. According to Donnie
Stevens, Electrical Trades teacher, the students will compete in residential wiring events
that include conduit bending, circuit wiring a three-way switch, and installing two
receptacles. The students will also compete in the Officers Opening Ceremonies, Quiz
Bowl and Professional Development.
SkillsUSA-VICA is a national organization, serving a quarter-million high school
and college students and professional members who are enrolled in technical, skilled and
service occupations. Students compete at the district level and, if successful, go on to
state and national competition.
Scott Kolbe, GBRA Electrician, and Jennifer Kolbe, GVEC Economic Development
Representative, became aware of the need for the tools while serving on the Electrical
Trades Advisory Committee.
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These students are expected to perform at a professional level. We want to equip
them with professional tools, said Kolbe. Serving on the Advisory Committee is one
way we can encourage students to focus on their career goals.
GBRA general manager Bill West said he was very proud of everyone involved in
this project. GBRA encourages its employees not only to volunteer but to step up when
resources are needed. We are delighted to partner with GVEC to help make this
equipment available.
The SkillsUSA-VICA motto is Preparing for leadership in the world of work.
According to GVEC General Manager and CEO Marcus Pridgeon, GVEC invests
substantial time and resources in preparing young people for leadership in the working
world. GVEC sponsors leadership training through the John Ben Sheppard Leadership
Program and awards several thousands of dollars in scholarships to college and technical
school-bound students each year.
Pridgeon added, In the electrical profession, having safe and reliable tools can
mean life or death. We provide our employees with the appropriate tools. It is equally
important for us to make sure these students have the right tools for the trade.

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Pictured, left to right, are: Donnie Stevens, Electrical Technology Teacher at Seguin
High School; Jennifer Kolbe, GVEC; students Skye Santiago, Eric Bellamy, Jason
Castillo, and Danny Allen; and Scott Kolbe, GBRA.