Cobe Whitmore

Job Title: Inside Wireman Apprentice

Company: Ferguson Electric

Location: Candor, N.Y.

Age: 21

Years on the Job: 4

Interests: Working on cars, working out, and spending time with friends and family

As the son of a union electrician, Cobe Whitmore was always fascinated by his dad’s ability to fix anything he put his hands on.

“Naturally, I always wanted to be the type of person who worked with their hands but also had to face mental obstacles to keep challenging myself,” he said.

Born and raised in Candor, N.Y., he earned his associate’s degree in applied science and completed his NFPA 70E, scissor-lift, boom-lift, forklift, and telescopic handler training. He also attends weekly training classes through the JATC to further his education and knowledge of the industry.

“My training has helped me become a well-trained and well-developed apprentice,” he said. “I also work as many hours as available to continue learning and becoming a better electrician.”

In his role as a fourth-year apprentice in IBEW Local 241, he starts each day with a morning stretch and flex. He then proceeds to prepare for the day's job or task, gathering materials and reviewing prints and the plan for the task at hand.

“During the workday, I am responsible for making sure everyone around me completes their daily goals, stays safe, and has the materials and equipment they need to keep the job progressing,” he said.

His favorite thing about his job is that the electrical industry keeps evolving, constantly exposing him to new challenges. He said technology is at the forefront of the electrical trade.

“Keeping new inventions and innovations progressing is great for helping jobs become more efficient and safer,” he said. “As a member in the field, my feedback on new tools helps my company and myself know what works best for everyone.”

His company is currently working on the Buffalo Bills Stadium, University of Rochester Hospital, CIS at Cornell University, and two Amazon jobs in Niagara Falls and Albany, N.Y.

In the future, he’d like to run a large-scale project for Ferguson Electric and, one day, have a key role in the IBEW that puts him in a position to help others achieve a prosperous future. He said he feels honored that the young professionals are recognized in the EC&M 30 Under 30.

“I hope this inspires the younger generations to join the trades,” he said.

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