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NORCAL Sound and Communication JATC Instructors Bring Decades of Skill to the Classroom

Each of the instructors, who teach in the NORCAL Sound and Communication JATC program, brings a varied background of relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities to share with their students.

 

Instructor:  Chris Cowan

Subjects Taught (Apprentice): Code & Practices;
Fire Alarm; AC and DC Theory; Nurse Call; Security; Access Control

Subjects Taught (Installer/Technician): BICSI; VDV Exam Prep; CPR/First Aid; OSHA 10/30; Fire Alarm Systems; Security Systems

BIO: Chris Joined NORCAL in June, 2008. He brings a wide variety of field experience as well as a former career as an electrician in the military. From 1995 to 1999, Chris served in the Navy as an Electricians Mate, Cargo Elevator Technician, Damage Control/Electrical Isolation Electrician and Electrical Tool Safety Officer. In 2004, Chris joined the IBEW Local 595, where he was able to work on many communication systems. He graduated from the apprenticeship program in 2006. With his ability to adapt, sense of humor, and his dedication to the students, Chris has become a great addition to the staff.

Quote: “Perfection is something that you should always strive to achieve.  It’s a goal that will last throughout your career and never be accomplished”

 

Master Instructor: Chuck Vella

Subjects Taught (Apprentice):  Structured Cabling; Residential Technology; Sound Reinforcement; Voice/Data; Fiber Optics; Blueprint Reading; CCTV; Telephony and Paging Systems

Subjects Taught (Installer/Technician):  BICSI; OSHA 10/30; Adult First Aid/CPR; FOA Certification Course; VDV Exam Prep

BIO: Chuck served in the Navy as an Aviation Electronics Mate beginning in 1985. In 1989, Chuck worked as a cable TV installer service technician quickly working his way up to a head end technician.  Chuck joined the IBEW Local 617 in 1999, where he was able to work on many communication systems. Chuck is an active IBEW member serving on the Central Labor Council, Bylaws Committee, and working as a teller in elections. With Chuck’s field experience, teaching skills and an energetic drive, he strives to give the best educational experience for each student.

Quote: “Give a person a fish and you feed them for a day. Teach them how to fish and you feed them for life”

 

Special Projects Coordinator:  Michael Sheriff

Duties:  Curriculum Development; Class Scheduling; Upgrade Class Instructor; Back up Instructor

BIO:  Mike started his career in the Sound and Communication industry in June 1989. A recent graduate of Chabot College, he worked for a NECA contractor for over 18 years.  Throughout his career, Mike has installed a variety of systems. He joined NORCAL in February 2008 as the Regional Curriculum Supervisor.

Quote: “Everyone here is dedicated to providing the best education for apprentices and installer technicians. Every student comes first. I am proud to be a part of this organization”