Electrician U

After getting a message from a former apprentice who just passed his journeyman exam, the conversation turns into a straight talk on what you owe the people coming up behind you: be a teacher, stay a student, and remember you did not get here alone. This episode is about the real impact a journeyman or master has on an apprentice’s work and life, how your attitude can either light someone up to le...

The electrical community can be a force for good, or a place where we shred each other over methods, brands, and code takes. Today I’m asking us to slow down and look at why we react the way we do. ⚡ From regional practices to shop standards, many of us were trained to chase approval, apprentice to journeyman to master, and that approval loop can turn into ego. When we see a different technique (...

In this episode, we sit down with two heavyweights in the electrical code world: Kyle Krueger , Executive Director of Codes and Standards at NECA , and Chad Kennedy , Director of Industry Standards at Schneider Electric . These two are not just interpreting the NEC. They are actively shaping the 2026 code cycle. We cover some of the most important updates coming in the 2026 NEC, including: Major c...

Dustin and Drake sit down with Scott Tecson from Milwaukee to talk about the company’s hands-on approach to solving the skilled trades shortage. From hosting events for high schoolers to partnering with STEM schools and nonprofits, Milwaukee is putting real money into real programs. They dive into efforts supporting veterans, female electricians, and underserved communities, while also questioning...

Dustin talks to Jack from Milwaukee Tool about how a rough prototype tested on a busy jobsite turned into the M18 Conduit Bender, a tool built to cut scrap, speed training, and keep bends consistent across the crew. Jack explains how their team shadows real jobs, takes blunt feedback, and shapes designs around actual site conditions. He walks through why the bender stays compact, how features like...

In this episode, Dustin shares a humbling story about replacing a ceiling fan in a two-story entryway with a 22-foot ceiling. He explains how relying on old methods with a Baker scaffold left him feeling motion sick, unsafe, and frustrated for not choosing a better solution sooner. Reflecting on how aging changes his work, he highlights why using the safest and most efficient tools matters, even i...

Starting your own electrical business? This episode breaks down everything that went into the first month of launching a new company, from setting up Google listings and building a website to burning money on lead gen services just to get those first few calls. Dustin shares the realities of lead platforms like Yelp, Thumbtack, and Nextdoor, what actually worked, and how much he spent to build tru...

I fired a pool company, and it wasn’t because of bad work. It was because they failed at the one thing every service professional needs to get right: follow through. Electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, and other tradespeople lose work every day not because of their skills, but because they miss appointments, fail to communicate, and break trust with their customers. If you're in the field and...

Drake and Dustin open up about the power of self-awareness and the often-overlooked impact of unchecked thoughts. They explore how internal narratives, daily frustrations, and conditioned behaviors can shape your reality without you realizing it. From road rage to family dynamics, the discussion digs into practical ways to catch yourself mid-thought, choose a different path, and take control of yo...

Dustin and Drake unpack how mentors, teachers, and journeymen shape the paths of those entering the electrical trade. They share personal stories of inspiration and discouragement, digging into how one bad leader can derail a promising future while the right mentor can ignite a lifelong passion. This episode is a wake-up call for every journeyman and leader in the field to recognize the influence...

Dustin talks with Sean Samson about how electrical contractors can break past the million-dollar ceiling by shifting from a transactional model to one driven by recurring service contracts. Sean explains how most contractors overlook opportunities hiding in plain sight, specifically NFPA 70B and 70E, and how electricians can borrow strategies from the HVAC world to build consistent revenue. They d...

In this episode, Dustin and Drake break down the myth of mastery and why real masters never stop learning. They share personal stories from the field, talk about how comfort can kill creativity, and challenge electricians to rethink how they measure success. The conversation highlights why staying curious, constantly improving, and embracing change are essential for mastering any craft without eve...

It’s about what it really takes to be a present, reliable tradesperson and a present, reliable parent. In this episode, Drake and Dustin get personal about what it means to raise kids while working full-time in the trades. Whether you're a single parent grinding through apprentice wages or navigating co-parenting and full schedules, this conversation dives into the mindset, structure, and sel...

Are you considering starting or switching to a career as an electrician? Can you actually afford to make the leap? In this episode, we break down the financial realities of entering the trade, from low apprentice wages to the rising cost of living. Using real numbers from cities like Austin, San Francisco, and Memphis, we explore what it takes to survive on an electrician's salary at differen...

Dustin and Drake go live to answer some of the most common and ridiculous questions they’ve heard from apprentices. From whether you can wear sandals on the job to why cheap tools are a bad idea, they cover real-life worksite etiquette, safety, and the importance of work ethic. They also dive into imposter syndrome, learning in the field versus schooling, and why cleaning up at the end of the day...

Dustin and Drake go live to tackle the everyday challenges service electricians face when homeowners call with mysterious electrical problems. From flickering lights and half-powered houses to hidden GFCIs and buzzing panels, they break down common issues and how to troubleshoot them like a pro. With a mix of humor, real-world experience, and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for ele...

Dustin and Drake talk about the sudden (temporary 🤞) loss of their YouTube channel and the impact it has on their business. They share insights on handling unexpected setbacks, staying calm under pressure, and finding solutions when things go wrong. From troubleshooting electrical circuits to dealing with online negativity, this episode is all about persistence, problem-solving, and knowing when...

In this episode, Dustin explores what it takes to become an electrician, offering valuable insights into the realities of the trade. He covers everything from union and nonunion paths to the importance of work ethic and practical experience. Dustin also highlights the diversity of electrician roles, career opportunities, and why this profession remains in high demand. Additionally, he provides cri...

Dustin breaks down the complex nature of electricity, exploring its essence as the interaction of charged particles. From defining voltage and current to debunking myths about frequencies and health, this episode dives into the practical and theoretical aspects of electrical energy. Learn how ground rods dissipate excess energy, the relationship between magnetism and moving charges, and how we, as...

Continuing the conversation from the last episode, Dustin Stelzer addresses a critical topic for apprentices and journeymen alike: borrowing tools. Drawing from his own experiences, Dustin highlights the frustrations caused by missing or mistreated tools and shares actionable tips on tool borrowing etiquette. Learn why asking permission, returning items in good condition, and maintaining common de...

In this episode, Dustin Stelzer dives into the importance of tool care and how neglecting this crucial habit can cost electricians time, money, and even safety. From safeguarding insulated tools to maintaining your work vehicle, Dustin shares real-life stories and actionable advice to help tradespeople protect their most valuable investments. Learn how simple habits like consistent storage, regula...

Dustin and Drake reflect on the lessons they wish they had learned earlier in their careers. They share insights on the importance of patience, discipline, and playing the long game, emphasizing the value of asking questions and learning from the right mentors. The conversation also touches on managing finances, maintaining a healthier lifestyle, and building habits that set up long-term success i...

Dustin and Drake discuss the critical shortage of electricians in the U.S., dissecting how this deficit affects everyone from homeowners to large tech and energy corporations. They explore the societal misconceptions that dissuade young people from pursuing trades, despite high wages and stable careers. Highlighting the increased need for skilled tradespeople, especially in renewable energy and te...

In this episode, Dustin and Drake discuss the value of discipline and consistent effort, both in the electrical field and in life. They share personal experiences about showing up fully for their work and passions, highlighting the importance of pushing through distractions and challenges. The conversation dives into how practicing hard work, even when it’s tough, leads to personal growth and succ...

In this special episode recorded live at NECA 2024, Dustin Stelzer from Electrician U sits down with Tara Canfield from Schneider Electric to discuss the evolving challenges and innovations in the electrical industry.  They dive into key issues such as the electrician labor shortage, the impact of advancing technology on electricians' work, and how companies like Schneider are helping to addr...