Executive Summary
The New Jersey Electronic Life Safety Association (NJELSA) has graduated the first three apprentices from its three-year, U.S. Department of Labor-approved Apprenticeship Program — Anthony Cortese, Kacper Olekszyk, and Jonathon Riotto — marking a milestone for a program designed to create a direct pathway into the electronic security and life safety industry.
The New Jersey Electronic Life Safety Association (NJELSA) announced a major milestone for its Apprenticeship Program: the graduation of its first three apprentices: Anthony Cortese, Kacper Olekszyk, and Jonathon Riotto.
The three-year apprenticeship program combines web-based training and paid on-the-job training to prepare the next generation of electronic security and life safety professionals. The achievement marks an important moment not only for the graduates, but for a program designed to create a direct pathway into the electronic security and life safety industry while helping New Jersey employers develop the skilled technicians they need.
What Is the NJELSA Apprenticeship Program?
The NJELSA Apprenticeship Program is a three-year, U.S. Department of Labor-approved program that combines technical education with paid on-the-job training. Apprentices are employed by participating companies while completing structured web-based instruction and gaining real-world experience in the field. Throughout the program, they develop the technical knowledge, practical skills, and professional experience needed to build a career in the electronic security and life safety industry.
Training covers key areas of the profession while allowing apprentices to learn directly from experienced industry professionals. Upon successful completion of the program, apprentices earn industry credentials, including ESA Level 1, OSHA 30, and a nationally recognized U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship credential.
For individuals looking for an alternative pathway to a traditional four-year college education or anyone interested in beginning a hands-on skilled career, the program provides an opportunity to earn while they learn and build experience from the start.
ESA Level 1
Industry Credential
OSHA 30
Safety Certification
U.S. DOL Credential
Nationally Recognized Apprenticeship
Celebrating the First Graduates
NJELSA recently recognized its first graduating class during the association's Annual Golf Outing this September at Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth. Graduate Jonathon Riotto was in attendance and recognized in person for his accomplishment. NJELSA also proudly celebrated fellow graduates Anthony Cortese and Kacper Olekszyk, and the hard work and dedication all three demonstrated throughout the three-year program.
NJELSA recognizes its first apprenticeship graduates at the Annual Golf Outing at Galloping Hill Golf Course.
For the graduates, the program has provided more than technical training. It has helped build the confidence that comes with developing knowledge and skills upon which others in the industry can rely.
"I'm so grateful for the apprenticeship program and everything I've learned along the way. Now, when someone calls me for help, I know they're coming to me because they trust my knowledge. Having the confidence to give them an answer or recommendation and knowing they trust what I have to say has been one of the most rewarding parts of completing the program."
Interested in Becoming an Apprentice?
NJELSA is currently looking for individuals interested in beginning a career in the electronic security and life safety industry. No previous industry career is required to explore the program. Prospective apprentices can learn more about the training, program requirements and opportunities available through NJELSA.
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