Train the Trainer: Fundamentals of Electrical Electronics

On January 21, 2025, Russell Anderson, CTW's Director of Bus Maintenance Training, conducted a "Train the Trainer" session on the Fundamentals of Electrical Electronics (FEE). The class brought together a diverse group of participants, including veteran mechanics from VTA Local 265 and ATU International, a seasoned electrician from CTW, and individuals with no prior electrical experience.

The FEE course emphasizes safety and practical problem-solving, forming the foundation for work on Zero-Emission Buses (ZEBs). The training fosters a collaborative learning environment where participants exchange knowledge and support one another, even during assessments. Key areas of focus include diagnostics, such as meter usage and basic troubleshooting, with problems tailored for all experience levels—from new workers to experienced trainers, peer mentors, and frontline staff selected by labor-management partnerships. While not a comprehensive electrical course, the training equips attendees with essential skills to address workplace challenges.

The session received high praise from both students and facilitators. Russell Anderson shared his thoughts, saying, “Great day of training, the students were fantastic!” Herlinda (Linda) Macias, an O&R Mechanic, and Rudy Alcantar, an Electrical Mechanic Foreman—both maintenance leads for the Joint Workforce Investment (JWI), a partnership between ATU 265 and VTA—found the training highly valuable. “I enjoyed the class, and it was great taking the train-the-trainer class. I loved it!” said Linda. Rudy added, “It was a great class. Definitely a good class for someone new to electrical diagnosis or someone who just needs a refresher course to brush up on their skills.”

Other participants shared similar enthusiasm. CTW’s own Dave Lawhorn remarked, “The training at VTA was fantastic! I've had the chance to learn from University Professors at places like the University of Michigan, Michigan State, UCI, and CSUF, but I have to say Russell's presentation was on par, if not better. He really engages everyone and keeps us wanting more. I can’t emphasize enough how great his teaching style is—he’s truly a gem!” Shandis McGlothen of ATU International shared, “I had fun learning about electrical and can’t wait for another class so I can master this training down to a science. Being that this was my first time, I did very well in figuring out the difference between Power and Ground. I even learned how to do a Texas 2 Step! Thanks again, Russell, for this basic training into the electrical world.”

By the end of the session, participants—regardless of their experience levels—left with newfound confidence in troubleshooting basic electrical issues. This knowledge serves as a stepping stone for tackling more complex problems on the shop floor, further demonstrating the value of this foundational training.

FEE Training Participants: Eliseo Acosta (ATU Int'l), Herlinda "Linda" Macias (JWI), Rich Diaz (ATU Int'l), Dave Lawhorn (CTW), Mike Faso (JWI), Shandis McGlothen (ATU Int'l), Rudy Alcantar (JWI), Kevin Kinoshita (ATU Int'l)