Following in His Son’s Footsteps: An Electrician Tech’s Journey to UEI Stockton

When Samuel Rocha first saw his son’s diploma from UEI College in Stockton, he felt a surge of pride. His son, who shares the same name, had just completed UEI’s Electrician Technician program, and Samuel said he couldn’t stop smiling when he saw the family name on the certificate.

“I told him, “I’d love to have something like that with my name on it, too,” Samuel said.

At the time, the idea felt more like a passing thought than the beginning of his own career journey. But an unfortunate layout and a chance meeting at a local pizza shop just a few weeks later turns this passing through into reality.

Today, Samuel is a UEI Stockton student himself, studying to train as an electrician technician just like his son.

A Father’s Encouragement

Before he ever thought of enrolling at UEI himself, Samuel was the one who encouraged his son to explore the electrical trade. Working as a forklift operator, Samuel saw how tough it can be to make ends meet without a long-term career path.

“My niece’s husband is an electrician, and he bought a house, raises his kids, takes them to ballgames, and has a good life,” he said. “I wanted something like that for my son — a job that could give him stability and help support his family.”

So, Samuel did some research and found UEI’s Electrician Technician program in Stockton. He took his son to campus, helped him enroll, and supported him as he worked through the program. He thought of also enrolling alongside his son, but he felt it would be difficult with a full-time job.

“It didn’t feel like a good idea at the time because with night classes, I’d be going to bed late and wouldn’t be able to get enough sleep,” Samuel said.

So, he pushed the idea aside and served as both a supporter and cheerleader for his son. Then, life pushed him to reconsider.

An Unexpected Turn of Events

In April of this year, Samuel was unexpectedly laid off from his forklift job after eight years. Unsure of what to do next, he leaned on family time to keep his spirits up. One day, he and his son went out for pizza, and ended up at Dante’s Pizza and Cafe instead of their usual spot.

That’s where Samuel ran into Christopher Thompson, the UEI representative who had first helped his son enroll.

“He remembered me right away,” Samuel said. “I told him how proud I was of my son and how I’d love to see my name on a certificate like his. That’s when he told me it’s never too late to start.”

Samuel was hesitant at first, but when Christopher followed up with a call the next week, Samuel decided to take the leap.

“It wasn’t a coincidence that I ran into him that day,” he said. “It was God guiding me in the right path for my future career.”

Back in the Classroom at UEI Stockton

This is his first time Samuel’s studied electrical work, but he said he’s found the challenge deeply rewarding.

“Everything I’m learning is so interesting that I’m committed to graduating,” he said. “I’ve even been brushing up on algebra and geometry so I can handle measurements in the field.”

His commitment is already showing results. Samuel made the President’s List following his first two modules, and he’s set the goal of maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher throughout his studies. He also leans heavily on the teachings of his favorite instructor, Chad Hersom.

“Mr. Hersom is really smart,” Samuel said. “He doesn’t just leave you on your own. He shows you how schematics and circuits work, explains blueprints, and makes sure you really understand.”

“Samuel’s drive to follow in his son’s footsteps and pursue a career in the electrical trade is truly inspiring,” Mr. Hersom said. “His dedication in the classroom, combined with his commitment to mastering the material, shows that it’s never too late to build a brighter future. We’re proud to support him every step of the way at UEI Stockton.”

More than anything, though, Samuel says he remains motivated by the example his son set.

“When I first saw his certificate, I was so proud,” he said. “I thought, “Now I want one of my own.’”

At 44, Samuel admits he’s older than most of his classmates. But he doesn’t see that as a barrier.

“It’s never too late,” he said. “Everything’s learnable. If you’re considering it, really think about it. The program is just nine months, and it gives you a skill you can put on your résumé. It’s good to have something solid to build your future on.”

And once he graduates, he looks forward to joining his son in the electrical field, perhaps as partners.

 “It would be great if we could join the electricians’ union at the same time,” he said. “That’s what I’m shooting for.”