The competition to determine the best young electrical installer in Álava kicked off this morning at the Egibide Jesús Obrero center. Four teams from Mendizabala, Egibide, Laudioalde, and ERIAKEN schools are participating in this event, which celebrates 'Instagune Eguna', the major day for the Alavés installation sector. The competition winner will secure a spot in the national-level contest held in Madrid.

The process is divided into three phases, simulating a company's daily operations: first, teams receive an electrical installation plan to create a detailed budget; then, they simulate the purchase of necessary materials; and finally, they demonstrate their skills by assembling all the materials on electrical panels.

A jury evaluates the entire process, from the material list and budget to the final circuit functionality. Correct measurements, aesthetics, regulatory compliance, orderliness, cleanliness, and the use of protective equipment are also assessed.

The students show great motivation for their technical studies. "I started initially because I had to do something, but now I want to study mechatronics," explains one of the students. His colleague shares a similar view: "I knew I wanted to work with my hands. We like this job, not sitting in an office in front of a computer."

The electrical installation sector is experiencing a period of high activity, driven by the rise of self-consumption, renewable energies, electric cars, and the renovation of medium and high-voltage grids. This leads to businesses continuously needing personnel. Luis Cebrián, head of sectors at SEA Empresas Alavesas, notes that "there's a significant shortage of people, but we see that centers are encouraging more students." Meanwhile, José Manuel Ben, president of the electrical installers' sector in Álava, highlights positive employment prospects: "The number of enrollments in these specialties is increasing. Centers like ERAIKEN are doubling classrooms because there is talent and attitude."