Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – South Texas College Electrician Technology students are putting their skills to work beyond the classroom as they help rebuild the home of a Sullivan City resident who recently lost everything in a fire.
What began as a community-led effort has quickly turned into a hands-on learning experience for STC students, reinforcing the college’s growing commitment to service-based education.
The project, led by Jose Ramirez, owner of Ram Energy Industries, is comprised of volunteers who offered to assist homeowner Estela Cadena, who stood in tears when she told them she had no family to help her recover from the loss.
Ramirez, who is a part of the STC Electrician Technology Advisory Board, said he felt compelled to step in and asked faculty at STC for additional support.
“Her home burned down and she didn’t have anyone to help her,” Ramirez said. “I took it upon myself, with the help of my crew and STC students to do this job for free. We are not charging (Estela) Cadena whatsoever.”
Offering their support, 10 STC students are now assisting with wiring, installing boxes, setting a new electrical panel and completing a full 100-amp service upgrade – all under professional supervision.
For Ramirez, the partnership with STC brings two benefits. It’s accelerating the rebuild for Cadena and providing students with something invaluable – genuine real-world experience.
“This is the best opportunity for the students,” Ramirez said. “They are going to learn hands-on, not just in a classroom. They will follow codes, they will see what to demo and what not to do. Basically, they are helping build a house from A to Z.”
Daniel Sanchez, faculty member with STC’s Electrician Technology program, said students are gaining experience that can’t be replicated in a lab setting.
“The students are gaining real-world wiring experience and helping out a family,” said Sanchez, who was on-site with students. “They are also networking. (Jose) Ramirez is a potential employer and this helps them get out there and find a job after they graduate.”
First semester student Fernando Valera said the opportunity has already given him confidence as he begins his career.
“I really appreciate the opportunity,” Valera said. “It’s important for me to get this experience so I can know what it is like in the field.”
STC students were recently paid a visit from the homeowner, who explained in Spanish that the assistance provided by students represents something larger than the construction work they are performing. Cadena said she was overwhelmed with gratitude with STC and the community coming together to assist her in her time of need.
“I am very happy. STC and everyone here have really provided a miracle and are a true blessing from God,” she said in Spanish. “I bless and thank everyone, and I will forever be grateful for what you are doing for me.”
Sullivan City Mayor Sylvia Castillo and council member Rene Pena were also on hand to greet students and workers at the build site.
“The training isn’t just inside four walls – it’s out in the field,” Castillo said. “STC students are learning and they are helping the community. It’s a win-win by all means.”
For more information on STC’s Electrician Technology program, visit www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/electrician/
Information source: STC
