Erik Esparza transitioned from a 15-year career driving forklifts to becoming a licensed electrician—thanks to the hands-on training and certifications he received at Washburn Tech. Today, he’s thriving in a career that challenges him mentally and physically, proving it’s never too late to start a new path in the skilled trades.
Erik Esparza spent over 15 years in a job that didn’t inspire him. He was behind the wheel of a forklift, stuck in a routine that wasn’t leading anywhere. But that all changed when he decided it was time to take a different path—one that offered growth, challenge, and a real future. He enrolled at Washburn Tech and committed to becoming an electrician.
“Going back to school was nerve-wracking at first,” Erik admits. “I thought I’d be the oldest person there. But it was a mix of all ages—and I quickly realized I wasn’t alone. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
At Washburn Tech, Erik gained hands-on experience, learned practical applications through labs, and earned industry-recognized certifications. “You never stop learning in this field,” he says. “There’s always something new to understand or a better way to do the work.” The combination of classroom learning and real-world application clicked with him—and it transformed his future.
Today, Erik works full-time as an electrician, and he’s already setting his sights on becoming a Master Electrician. One day, he hopes to run his own business. “It’s not just better pay—it’s better fulfillment,” he shares. “This career is mentally and physically engaging. No day is ever the same.”
Originally from Los Angeles, Erik moved to Kansas to find a better opportunity—and he found one. “A lot of people think they have to leave Kansas to find a good job,” he says. “But for me, it was the opposite. I came here for better opportunities, and I found them.”
Erik’s advice to others is simple: Don’t wait. “Whether you’re just starting out or looking to change careers, go for it. There are so many jobs out there in construction, and you’ll be proud of what you build—literally and figuratively.”
