Luis Chavez
Job Title: Service Technician
Company: The Happy Outlet
Location: Carson City, Nev.
Age: 21
Years on the Job: 2
Interests: Working on the remodel of his new home and playing soccer
Luis Chavez became drawn to the electrical trade when he realized that trades — and especially home servicemen — are paid well, their jobs are never boring, the work is always challenging, and it keeps people physically fit. Born in Michoacán, Mexico, Chavez came to the United States when he was seven years old. Most of his training has been in the field, but two years ago, he had the opportunity to attend electrical troubleshooting and service training.
“My training has helped me tremendously with my troubleshooting skills,” he says. “At the Happy Outlet, we have weekly meetings and training sessions where we discuss code, theory, past service calls, and customer-service training.”
Chavez typically goes on two to three service calls each day, where he focuses on answering customers’ questions and developing rapport.
“When I started, I was an apprentice and had ride-alongs on every call,” he says. “Now that I am in my own service van and encountering new and different challenges every day, it’s important to have good communication skills with both the clients and the office.”
In the electrical trade, he says technology is paramount because it helps with communication. For example, the software his company uses stores all the information about previous jobs including notes and photos.
“Any information to help diagnose the issue is only a few taps away,” he says. “I help by keeping up and trying to help coworkers understand the system.”
He strives to reach his future goals by applying everything he has learned in the trade.
“I hope that more young people join the trades,” Chavez says. “Trades are very important, and if you enjoy a challenge and love helping people, then the electrical trade may be for you.”
