How CES District Manager Jason Ford Supports the Next Generation of Electricians
Here at City Electric Supply (CES), Fort Myers District Manager Jason Ford understands the full potential of today’s students — and tomorrow’s skilled technicians.
Over the years, Ford has gained extensive experience and built a strong network. He’s also become a reliable supporter of local trade schools.
One such trade Registered Apprenticeship Program, Tri-County Apprenticeship Academy (TCAA), offers comprehensive electrical training, including programs for apprentices pursuing their journeyman certifications.
In February, TCAA’s fourth-year electrical apprentices engaged in a lab training exercise using materials donated by industry partners. The session gave students a special opportunity to apply their skills and learn about medium-voltage termination and splicing. Ford’s contribution of specialized materials like wire and 3M splice kits gave students an unforgettable hands-on experience.
“Mr. Jason Ford and City Electric Supply have been great partners in our mission to train the next generation of electricians,” a TCAA representative shared. “Jason has gone above and beyond to provide Tri-County Apprenticeship Academy with numerous donations that have allowed us to deliver great hands-on learning experiences to our electrical apprentices. TCAA values our partnership with Jason and his team at CES for all they do to help with the materials needed for our electrical labs.”
Bridging industry and education
Ford is helping apprentices get a head start in the electrical industry beyond simply material donations.
As a 10-year member of the Electrical Council of Florida (ECF), where Ford currently serves as president, he frequently coordinates scholarships to benefit local trade schools.
Ford relies on his personal network to facilitate connections between CES, vendors, and institutions like TCAA. Whatever students may need, Ford turns to manufacturers and vendors — and works to secure donations or discounts.
“The school comes to me when they need stuff donated for labs, and that’s a great place to help out,” he explained.
But that’s not all; Ford also uses the CES network to help further education into tomorrow’s innovations. “Our EV Solutions division is scheduled to come in and do a class at the school about the electric vehicle market,” Ford said.
Building connections with young electricians
Ford has been in the industry long enough to work with both veteran electricians and their children. By doing so, he’s forged a real connection with the next generation.
“It’s pretty cool to see them start from the very beginning,” the CES District Manager said. “I’ve worked with most of these kids’ dads. It’s neat to see that aspect of it — someone that I’ve known through my whole career, and then their kid’s growing up through it.”
The CES family appreciates Ford’s commitment to empowering the next generation of the trades. “It’s about building relationships. You never know; someday they may remember us as a part of what helped them out in the beginning.”
Honoring the future of the electrical trade
Ford points out that without apprenticeship opportunities like those available at TCAA, the trades could face challenging times.
“We’ve got to help these students so they can keep the industry growing,” he said. “They’re the future of the electrical trade.”
Ford also encourages other CES branches to get involved in similar initiatives. “Put in the investment; it pays off in the end,” he believes.
We couldn’t be prouder of leaders like Ford who display the commitment and service integral to our company, and they continue to inspire us each and every day.