"It felt like family... I was always excited to come to GRID", says Johnathan 'JP' Paez.
JP was born in the small town of San Joaquin, California. Around the age of eleven, his family moved to Mendota. There, he attended high school and in his junior year, developed a passion for cutting hair. He started with a pair of $20 clippers from Walmart cutting his dad's hair and now has Division 1 athletes as clients.
JP, the eldest of six children, had to mature quickly. He would rise early, assist with lunch preparations, and get his siblings ready for school. His parents' 'hustler' mindset instilled in him a strong work ethic. At eighteen, JP had saved enough to venture out on his own, a testament to his family's support and his own determination.
He was successful in phone sales for AT&T, working inside a Costco kiosk. In only six months, he was overseeing and training others. JP also spent a season as a teacher working with special education. His mother and aunt, both involved in the field, inspired him. These jobs provided the income that he needed but left him depressed and unfulfilled. After a conversation with a family member who is an electrician, JP discovered that he, too, wanted to become one. JP would attend Installations Basics Training (IBT200) as a springboard to become an electrician.
As he reflects on his experience, JP shares these thoughts. The instructors played a considerable role in the success of the program, each bringing their unique gifts and personalities. The friendship between trainees and staff was authentic, which made installations enjoyable. After graduation, his first job was cleaning panels for Solar Negotiators. Shortly after, he became an installer for Trinity Power. On December 2nd, JP will begin his new electrician trainee position with Harris Electric, only one step away from becoming an electrician.
On behalf of GRID Alternatives Central Valley, we express our gratitude to Johnathan Paez for allowing us to share his inspiring journey. We are proud of your achievements and wish you continued success!