Fort Mill, S.C., FEB 25, 2024 – Laurel Institute of Technology opened enrollment for its new Electrical System Technician program in the Fall of 2024. This program was brought to the campus to meet the growing need for skilled trade professionals in the area. In this 12-month diploma program, students will learn important skills such as basic wiring concepts, low-voltage wiring, load calculations, motor control, and more! The program is housed in Laurel’s new Fort Mill campus, located at 345 Patricia Lane, Suite 105, in Fort Mill, SC. To begin the late fall semester in 2024, Laurel excitedly welcomed new instructors Marc Cordone and Charlie Buchannan.
Originally from Connecticut, Cordone moved to Fort Mill in 2023, looking for a change in scenery. He attended a vocational high school with a trades program that introduced him to the electrical field. After high school, Cordone started an apprenticeship and has been in the field for the last ten years. Cordone states, “My favorite part of being an electrician is that the field is always changing and evolving with new technology…” Overall, he really enjoys the challenge of problem-solving. Cordone also states. “Being an instructor in the Electrical Systems Technician program here at Laurel, I really look forward to working with students and inspiring them to join the trades field.”
In the photo: Marc Cordone, Laurel Institute of Technology Trades Instructor
Buchanan was born in Columbus, Mississippi, but was raised in Lancaster, South Carolina. After 16 years of service to the U.S. Navy, Buchanan began work as a field service technician, stating, “I like the variety of projects in this field, kind of like a box of chocolates. You get a new one every time you open the box!” He also states, “I look forward to helping students navigate their own path and pass down wisdom to help them achieve their goals.”
In the photo: Charlie Buchanan, Laurel Institutes of Technology Trades Instructor
The new Electrical System Technician diploma program highlights the development of skills necessary for individuals to install and maintain electrical systems in unique lab spaces designed for real-life simulation & response etiquette, led by a strong team of instructors with years of in-field experience. The 12-month program is also designed to prepare students for certifications, including the NCCER Core & Electrical 1 – 4, NFPA 70e Low Voltage Safety, and OSHA 10 certification. The program will also emphasize special features of various electrical systems and demonstrate diagnostic procedures to determine the causes of electrical failures.
“Our program provides an interactive learning environment and incorporates a strong foundation of electrical knowledge, proper and safe equipment handling techniques, and preparation for five different industry certifications.” states Justin Caldwell, Director of Trades for Laurel Institutes, “Our goal is to provide each student with an ever-evolving opportunity for growth and education, and we’re excited to offer that within this program.”
This 12-month diploma program is offered to students in Fort Mill, South Carolina, and surrounding areas. The Electrical Systems Technician program curriculum includes courses in Residential Wiring Concepts, Industrial Wiring, Low Voltage Wiring, Voice / Data and Video Installation, PLC Programming, Certification Prep, and much more! With small class sizes and experienced faculty, Laurel has high hopes of helping build great entry-level graduates for the community and surrounding areas!
Conveniently located in Fort Mill, SC, Laurel Institute of Technology is a short drive from Interstate I-77 (Exits 88 or 85) off of Highway 160. This location is the newest addition to Laurel’s growing network of private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE). For more information, visit laurel.edu or call 803-802-0700.