Sparky Life

Apr 25 2024
Sparky Life Podcast artwork

This is the Sparky Life with Lia Lamela. Thank you for joining me every Thursday for remarkable stories and points of view from journeyman and woman who build the things that make our lives work!  These lessons learned are not only valuable for those engaged in the skilled trades but frankly for all of us whether we use tools literally or figuratively in our daily lives.  I share with you my electrical journey, experiences and insight through engaging banter with those I have met along the way.  If you are interested in trade tales, an industry frought with excitement and risk subscribe and be notified every Thursday when trade tales continue. We build the world we want to live in.  Let’s band together to create the sparks in our lives!

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A Single Mother's Electrifying Journey - Andrea O'Connel

Apr 25 2024 36 mins  
In this episode , Lia Lamela welcomed electrician Andrea O'Connell, who shared her empowering story of transitioning from a struggling single mother to a passionate tradeswoman. Andrea recounted her serendipitous entry into the construction industry, where she discovered a fulfilling career path. She candidly discussed the challenges of balancing motherhood with her apprentice

A New Future for Skilled Trades Education

Apr 18 2024 32 mins  
In this episode, Lia Lamela speaks with Will Betances, a master electrician and founder of Energize Us, about his initiative to transform skilled trades education. Energize Us ia an accredited Not for Profit 501(c)(3) Education Center Trade Pre-Apprenticeship program, training the next generation. A revolution is underway, spearheaded by Energize Us Edu Inc. This visionary institut

Is College Over Rated & Skilled Trades Under Valued?

Apr 11 2024 30 mins  
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela interviews Ryan, an 18-year-old entrepreneur and HVAC apprentice. They discuss the urgent need for tradespeople and the opportunities within the HVAC industry. Ryan shares his proactive approach to learning and his plans to obtain multiple trade licenses. They discuss the academic system and encourage exploring various fie

A 12 Year-Old's Unconventional Path

Apr 04 2024 25 mins  
Viola Vargas, is 12 years old and already a trailblazer. She started her journey with the trades when she was a toddler and growing up she always loved working with tools with her dad. Viola started with cutting wires, but today she helps her dad with HVAC projects. Not only is she skilled in HVAC but she is an athlete as well, taekwondo, soccer, and track and field. Viola hopes to

Is Electrical Engineering An Art?

Mar 28 2024 30 mins  
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, Lia speaks with electrical engineer Ayesha Wilson about her career and advocacy for STEM outreach. Ayesha shares her inspiration from astronaut Kalpana Chawla and her path to circuit design. Ayesha's dedication to teaching and mentorship shines through as she discusses breaking down academic gatekeeping and the value of collaboration

Follow Up: Heart-Wrenching Events at the Local 26

Mar 21 2024 31 mins  
In our latest episode on March 7, 2024, Two Students Stabbed at Local 26 Electrical Training Center: Bullying and Mental Health in the skilled trades we discussed the tragic events which occurred on Feb 13th 2024 in Manassa, VA. In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast we follow up on the heart-wrenching events that have shaken our community at Local 26. I sat down with a courage

Be Apart of History: A WWII Memorial for Women on the Home Front with Raya Kenney

Mar 14 2024 30 mins  
In this Sparky Life episode Raya Kenney discusses her 11-year journey building a Memorial for Women On The Home Front during World War II, emphasizing visibility and recognition for their contributions. She details the project's design, fundraising needs, and educational goals. Raya highlights the importance of mentorship, community, and advocating for gender equity in skilled

Two Students Stabbed at Local 26 Electrical Training Center: Bullying & Mental Health in the skilled trades

Mar 07 2024 41 mins  
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, Lia Lamela and guests Dr. Talia Jackson and Douglas Jensen from the We're Not Fine podcast discuss a stabbing incident at the local 26 JATC in Manassas, Virginia. They talk about the serious issues of bullying and mental health within the construction industry, reflecting on the culture that may contribute to such tragedies. The conv

Build a Successful Career in Building Automation

Feb 29 2024 34 mins  
In this podcast episode, Chris Guyatt, a building automation expert, and Lia Lamela, talk about the lucrative and evolving field of building automation. Chris outlines the business potential, emphasizing the importance of branding, marketing, and understanding electrical controls. He also shares a step-by-step learning path for newcomers, stressing the significance of hands-on expe

Who Are the Mentors For The Next Generation?

Feb 22 2024 42 mins  
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela talks with Cate, a second-year apprentice carpenter from British Columbia, about the challenges and experiences of women in the skilled trades. Cate discusses her transition from administrative work to carpentry, and the importance of self-confidence. They address the balance between strength and softness. Cate discloses h