Denmark Tech celebrates first electrician apprenticeship program completers

Denmark Technical College recently held a historic ceremony to celebrate the first group of completers from its electrician apprenticeship program. The event marked a major step forward in the college’s continued commitment to developing a skilled workforce that meets the growing needs of South Carolina’s energy and construction industries.

The electrician apprenticeship program offers students a dynamic pathway to rewarding careers in electrical work and renewable energy. Designed in partnership with HBCU CDAC, Apprenticeship Carolina and SC Nexus, the program blends classroom instruction with hands-on, paid training. Apprentices work alongside professionals while earning wages and completing the hours required for licensure, gaining both real-world experience and technical knowledge that lead to immediate employability.

“This ceremony represents more than the completion of a program. It is the beginning of promising careers and new opportunities for individuals who are ready to power progress in their communities. These graduates reflect our mission to engage, educate and empower through relevant, high-quality training,” said Eric Brown, Ph.D., president and CEO of Denmark Technical College.

The electrician apprenticeship program covers a wide range of learning objectives, including residential wiring and safety, service entrance installation, system maintenance, renewable energy fundamentals and customer service. Students also gain exposure to green technologies such as solar, wind and hydrogen systems, equipping them to meet the evolving demands of the modern energy landscape.

“South Carolina is growing rapidly and skilled electricians are essential to supporting that growth. This program gives our students the chance to earn while they learn, to gain industry-recognized experience and to build a foundation for long-term success,” said Shelby Simmons, director of workforce development and continuing education.

“Our collaboration with HBCU CDAC, Apprenticeship Carolina and SC Nexus ensures our curriculum stays current and directly aligned with industry needs. By working closely with employers, we are preparing a workforce that is both highly skilled and ready to contribute from day one,” said Hadi Hamid, assistant vice president for industrial related technology and workforce development.

For graduate Maurice Simmons, the program was a life-changing opportunity. “This experience gave me more than just technical skills. It showed me that I could build a real career, one that challenges me and gives me pride in the work I do every day,”  Simmons said.

With a strong emphasis on safety, problem solving and sustainable energy, Denmark Technical College’s electrician apprenticeship program continues to open doors for individuals seeking meaningful careers. The success of this first group of completers demonstrates how focused workforce training can create lasting change for students, employers and communities across the state.