Herzing Skilled Trades

Photo: Leshan Patterson at Herzing College

Updated April 2022

Leshan Patterson never intended to pursue a career in the skilled trades. He went to university and earned a degree in bio-medical science before realizing he wasn't on the right career path.

Leshan started researching other options and discovered he was a perfect fit to become an electrician. He enrolled in the Combined Electrician and Network Cabling Technology Program at Herzing and never looked back.

Now, he's graduated from the program, and just been hired as an Electrician Apprentice with Micromaster Pioneers - a Toronto company that delivers residential and commercial electrical services.

We interviewed Leshan to find out what he thought of Herzing's training, and what he's up to at his new job. He gave us an inside look at what it's like to go back to school, and take a chance on a new career path.

Here are the highlights from our conversation.

Updated December 2023

With the construction industry booming and large numbers of older workers retiring, the time is right to begin a career in the skilled trades.

While there is currently high demand for many occupations related to construction, new grads still have to compete for great jobs. Choosing to learn two trades is an excellent strategy for maximizing your opportunities in the job market.

Updated January 2024

Communication networks are one of the connecting foundations of modern society, essential to both business and leisure for enabling information to travel freely throughout the world.

This data and voice information that links people and places typically moves from one network device to another through the use of cabling systems.

Network cabling technicians have the important job of installing and repairing these telecommunications lines that we all rely on. This career requires a specialized understanding of various cabling and media, physical and logical networks, and signal transmission.

Curious about what exactly network cabling technicians do and the sort of employment opportunities you can expect?

Here's what you need to know.

Updated January 2023

What exactly is network cabling?

Cabling specialists install and repair telecommunications lines. They work in homes and businesses, setting up and troubleshooting internet, cable and satellite TV, and phone lines. This trade requires a unique combination of customer service skills, technical aptitude, adaptiveness to emerging technology, and exceptional problem-solving.

Wondering if a network cabling program is right for you? Start by answering these five questions.