Cody Cole, a 25-year-old electrical field superintendent, has carved out a successful career in the blue-collar world, skipping college and earning over $40/hour. His journey began in 2019, shortly after high school, when he entered the electrical field, initially driven by family influence. However, it was the AI boom and the expanding demand for data centers that truly ignited his passion for the trade. With a unique perspective, he shares his insights on the industry, mentorship, and the opportunities it presents, especially for young people.
A Different Path
Cody's decision to skip college was not a spontaneous one. He was never a stellar student, and his parents instilled in him the value of earning his own money. This mindset led him to pursue a career in industrial electrical work, where he could start making good money right out of high school. The AI boom further solidified his choice, as he saw firsthand the need for skilled tradesmen in the data center sector, a field that Corbins, his company, specializes in.
The Apprenticeship Program
One of the turning points in Cody's career was his participation in the electrical apprenticeship program through the Western Electrical Contractors Association (WECA). This program, funded by Corbins and offering a generous salary, allowed him to balance on-the-job training with classroom instruction. The result? A quick progression from $15/hour to over $40/hour, and a salutatorian graduation in 2024. Cody's experience highlights the value of apprenticeships, which can provide a solid foundation for a successful career without the debt of a traditional college education.
The Data Center Boom
The data center boom has created a surge in job opportunities, not just in construction but also in various supporting roles like accounting, financing, and planning. Cody's work in data centers has taken him to New Mexico and Texas, where the industry is thriving. He acknowledges the controversies surrounding data centers but believes they are necessary for AI progress and provides new work opportunities. The demand for skilled labor in this sector is high, and Cody's experience reflects the potential for young people to enter and thrive in this booming industry.
Mentorship and the Big Picture
Despite his success, Cody remains humble, seeing himself as still new to the trades. He enjoys mentoring others and sharing the 'why' behind his work, especially in the context of AI and data centers. His role as a superintendent allows him to plan for the whole building, while higher positions offer a broader perspective on the impact and future of projects. Cody's approach to work, driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the bigger picture, is a refreshing take on the blue-collar world.
A Thoughtful Takeaway
Cody's story is a testament to the power of apprenticeships and the opportunities in the blue-collar sector. It challenges the notion that a college degree is the only path to success, and highlights the potential for young people to enter and thrive in industries like data centers. His journey is a reminder that success can be found in various paths, and that the key lies in finding one's passion and working hard to achieve it.
