Before I even learned about Co-op Tech, I knew that I wanted to further my understanding of Electrical Engineering. I wouldn’t have gotten this far without the help of my teacher Mr. O’Brien, it’s thanks to him that I even got into the electrical field. He taught me the basics such as the different types of wires to use, the tools that were necessary for striping and or splicing wires, as well as protection measures to prevent short circuits. I owe him a debt of gratitude for teaching me these skills since they will help me pursue this career in the long run. Not only will it help me to secure a job in this field, but it will also accommodate the showing of my prowess in Electrical Engineering.
During my Junior year, I heard about Co-op from Mr. O’Brien and several other teachers. I thought it would be a perfect opportunity for me since not only would I get more experience, but I would also have a much greater chance of getting into the Union. Studying the work I did with Mr. O’Brien only helps to boost my confidence and drive to succeed. With this many opportunities put in front of me, I feel that I can really pursue the passion for Electrical while also testing my limits to see if this is truly the career for me.
Mr. Gurrero is my Electrical Engineering teacher at Co-op Tech, and I had the chance to speak with him about my previous knowledge of the field. Both he and Mr. O’Brien taught the Electrical course in Co-op so I wanted to compare what I already knew with the work that was to come. In doing so I learned just how much working with Mr. O’Brien really paid off. Not only did I understand the concepts better, but I also already had information on harder projects that were yet to come since I had already done something similar. Mr. Guerrero is also an excellent teacher, if I ever have trouble with a project or how something works, I know I can count on him. Not only to explain it in great detail but to also show me how the system works hands-on.
During my time so far with the Electrical Engineering program at Co-op Tech, I feel that I have become more well versed in the mechanics of the field. I have learned about many of the different materials and tools required to work on certain projects. For example, one of the things I’ve learned is how to wire a “3 Wire return Call System”. This is a sequence in which power runs from a transformer/power source to two bells and two buttons via a feed wire along with section wire. The buttons will each activate their corresponding bell, with the current being returned back to the transformer/power source via the ground wire. The tools required for this setup were a Phillips Head screwdriver, Wire Stripper, and Long Nose Pliers. Other than wring and running these systems we also got to learn of their practical use in real-life construction scenarios such as doorbells. All in all my time in Co-op Tech has been what I call a life-changing experience that will not only help me to surpass my limits but also allow me to progress further into the Electrical Field. I don’t know what is next to come or what hardships await, but I know that whatever it is I’ll take it head-on.