Mikel Gable, WECA Southern California Class of 2026 Electrician Trainee Valedictorian Spotlight

For Mikel Gable, the WECA Southern California Class Electrician Trainee Class of 2026 Valedictorian, his dad’s jack of all trades career journey as a company owner that specialized in mechanical, plumbing, and electricity inspired Mikel to pursue a career in the electrical industry.

Mikel’s path to WECA and the electrical industry, however, was not linear. Mikel originally worked as a chef in restaurants but quickly realized that lifestyle wasn’t right for him. In 2016, Mikel moved to Southern California and began working as a plumber.

“I worked as a plumber for three years before ultimately jumping trades to electrical,” said Mikel. “During my plumbing career, I would see the electricians and saw what their job entailed. I really dug the idea of using my brain and knowledge of code more on a daily basis.”

Eventually, Mikel enrolled in WECA’s Electrician Trainee Program and began working toward becoming a certified electrician.

“Working a full-time job and going to WECA for the entirety of four years was no easy task, but taking these courses online gave me the ability to make it happen. Some days were challenging, but it was ultimately easier than driving to an actual school,” said Mikel.

While enrolled in the Electrician Trainee Program, Mikel had the opportunity to work on interesting jobsites and projects.

“One in particular was a mushroom growing, processing, and shipping warehouse for a company called OM. This job not only introduced me to power cabinets, controls, and massive equipment, but was also the first job where I worked as the lead,” said Mikel. “Another job I was part of required a new SDG&E package that included eleven 6” pipes. The challenge was a 6’ x 3’ footing that I had to tunnel under to get into the new utility room. Needless to say, my plumbing skills and endurance were put to the test.”

Mikel attributed his success in the Electrician Trainee Program to his mentor, Richard Huddleston, his previous plumbing mentor Tracy King, his parents, and his wife.

“Richard, who was my mentor as an electrician, helped whenever I needed it and had a more hands-off approach, which I grew to love. I would be lying though if I didn’t say I would go to him a lot for what he called ‘spiritual guidance and counseling’. I have to mention my mentor during my plumbing career, Tracy King; working with him was like working with a clone of myself, except older and wiser. My mom and dad for raising me to be the man I am today. And most of all, my wife for sticking with me through this entire journey,” said Mikel.

After graduation, Mikel plans to journey out as a general electrician and will take his test soon. Beyond that, Mikel said that “starting my own company has crossed my mind many times”.

Congratulations, Mikel, on your achievements and the culmination of a long but dynamic journey! Your multifaceted expertise in the trades and in other fields will continue to serve you well as you chart your path to continued success in the electrical industry!