From Mining Roots to New Opportunities: An Electrician Tech Student’s Journey

For Raymond Hernandez, mining isn’t just a job. It’s part of his family identity.

A second-generation miner, Raymond spent years working underground extracting potash, copper, and gold. But even while working long shifts beneath the surface, he found himself drawn to something else: the electrical systems that keep mines, homes, and businesses running.

“I’d done some residential side jobs with a cousin of mine,” Raymond said. “I wanted to push forward, do it right, learn the safety, and really understand how electricity works.”

That desire to take his experience and channel it into a skilled, professional career is what led Raymond to UEI College’s Electrician Technician (ET) program at UEI’s Mesa campus. And what he found at UEI was the opportunity to expand his knowledge and his career options, whether in mining or an industry that’s new to him.

Choosing a New Direction

Before attending UEI, Raymond’s life revolved around mining and raising his family. He enjoys off-roading, fishing, and spending time with his kids and his aging father.

But when he looked at the future, he realized he wanted something more specialized, with opportunities both inside and outside of the mining industry.

“I put it together that school would be the best way to really pursue the knowledge,” he said. “I’d been around electrical work, but I wanted to get in-depth — to understand the theory, the safety, and to have the confidence to pass inspections without hiccups.”

UEI offered the right fit. The Mesa campus was close enough to seamlessly mesh with his daily life, and the program’s schedule allowed him to keep earning an income while studying.

Now a couple of months into the program, Raymond is thriving. What’s stood out the most, he said, is UEI’s commitment to hands-on training.

“The curriculum is very detailed, and right now, safety is a big focus,” he said. “Conduit bending was something completely new to me, but I love that everything we learn is tied back to real-world skills.”

Raymond also praises his instructor, Ms. Dorinda McCoy — “Ms. M,” as students call her — for her dedication.

“She’s amazing. She’ll kneel or squat to draw out a detailed diagram if that’s what it takes to help a student understand,” he said. “Even when we moved into a new lab space that still needed work, she didn’t complain. She just kept teaching and made it work. That kind of attitude inspires you to keep pushing forward.”

Seeking Success Beyond the Classroom

Beyond the classroom, Raymond said he enjoys the overall atmosphere at UEI.

“The environment is clean, professional, and open,” he said. “If a student needs something, the doors are always open. No matter the level of authority, the staff will make time for you. That makes a big difference.”

For Raymond, that support means he can focus on learning not just the technical side of electricity but also the professional side — things like etiquette, communication, and confidence.

“UEI gives you the tools and guidance to conquer challenges,” he said. “It’s not just about knowing how to do the work, but about becoming a sincere professional who respects the trade.”

While Raymond’s heart will always be tied to mining, he now sees his career possibilities opening wide. Becoming an electrician technician in the mining community would be a natural next step, but he’s also open to trying new paths.

“That’s the beauty of electrical work. It gives you options,” he said.

His ultimate goal is simple: turn his past experience into a respected, sustainable career that provides for his family.

“I’ve been in mining since I was 20 years old,” Raymond said. “Now I’m building something new, something that’s mine. I’m proud to say I learned my trade at UEI.”

And for others considering learning a trade at UEI?

“If you want hands-on learning with flexible hours and a program that supports you, UEI is the place,” he said. “I’d give it the highest review. It’s the best decision I’ve made for my future.”