Workforce Development Summit participant plans to start his own electrical business

January 31, 2025

One Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Workforce Development Summit participant is on the path to start an electrical business and provide job placement and job security to young inexperienced electricians.

Zion Easterling is a senior at Trenholm State Community College majoring in electrical technology.

Easterling said he aspires to become an electrician in the near future and contribute to the ever-growing field of technology.

He said TMCF’s mission and vision are what inspired him to attend the Workforce Development Summit.

“I’m excited to meet like-minded people and organizations that align with my educational views,” Easterling said. “I’m most looking forward to experiencing the resources and staff of Thurgood Marshall College Fund, as they have been so helpful and intriguing through my journey with them so far.”

Easterling wants to connect with people in industries related to electrical and HVAC while he’s at the conference.

“I hope to gain a pool of like-minded peers, workforce skills, business insight and a new open door to opportunity,” he said.

The Montgomery, Alabama native has big professional and academic plans for the future. After finishing his electrical technology education, he intends to earn an associate degree in welding and a bachelor’s in electrical engineering.

Outside of the classroom, Easterling enjoys fine art photography and has his works displayed at various locations in Montgomery, including the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. He also actively participates in community projects and events aimed at promoting art and its advancement in the local community.

Easterling said choosing an HBCC has had an impact on his academic and professional career.

“My HBCC is preparing me for my life and career because everyday while attending school, either through working with students and staff while being in a student organization or attending class and going through my curriculum, I am faced with real-world problems that strengthen my critical thinking and problem solving that is imperative in education and adulthood,” he said.  

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