Q&A With Instructors Who Are Mentoring the Next Generation of Electricians
June 11, 2025 – Lakewood, CO — At Encore Electric, there are dedicated instructors who teach, mentor, guide, and inspire the next generation of electricians. The current instructors at Encore Electric are Scott Sorensen, Johnny Tankersley, Mike Glynn, and Caleb Mann. All of these instructors provide students with hands-on training and real-world experience, despite working full-time. These instructors teach at different Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) locations across Colorado. Thank you to all of the past and current instructors at Encore Electric!
Scott Sorensen
Superintendent
Instructor at IEC Rocky Mountain (IECRM)
Question: What inspired you to pursue a career in the electrical field?
Answer: I chose to pursue a career as an electrician because I wanted to work in a stable, long-lasting industry that offers endless opportunities for growth and learning.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the construction industry?
My advice would be to stay patient and committed, especially in the beginning. The construction industry offers limitless opportunities, but it takes time to learn and grow. Don’t get discouraged if things are tough at first – embrace the process, stay curious, and always be open to learning. Seek out mentors who can help guide you and remember that the effort you put in early on will pay off in the long run.
Johnny Tankersley
Service Manager
Instructor at Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Southern Colorado
What motivated you to become an instructor at IEC?
My brother is the A&T Committee Chairman for IEC Southern Colorado, and he tried to get me to be an instructor for years. They were at a point where they really needed a 2nd year instructor, so I wanted to help them out. It was very challenging teaching 2nd year out of the gate. I think I learned as much as the students in that first year.
What do you find most rewarding about being an instructor?
I find it rewarding to see apprentices advance in their careers. I have former students who now own their own business. Students who have become electrical inspectors. Students who have now become IEC instructors themselves. To see them develop in their careers is very rewarding.
Mike Glynn
Service Technician
Instructor at Western Colorado IEC (WCIEC)
What do you find most rewarding about being an instructor?
That moment when you see the lights come on, especially when teaching math. You see a bunch of blank stares, and you try different approaches to the same problem. It’s great to see the look on their faces when it clicks for them.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the construction industry?
First, explore all your options. The more you learn, the more interesting the field is and the more valuable you can be as an employee. Try commercial, residential, and industrial. See what you like and spice things up. Second, take care of yourself. When you’re young, and bulletproof, it all seems easy, but a long career in construction can take its toll on your body. Take care of your back, knees, and shoulders. Pay attention to ergonomics and preparing your body for what it will be doing.