Day in the Life – Instrument Tech & Apprentice Electrician JayCee De Boom and Jacob Wintheiser

Ever wonder what it's like to pursue a skilled trade through real-world experience and professional development? Interstates team members JayCee De Boom and Jacob Wintheiser recently represented the company at the ABC National Craft Competition, showcasing their expertise and gaining valuable hands-on experience.  

JayCee earned first place in the instrumentation fitters contest, while Jacob competed in the commercial/industrial electrician category. Both shared what their careers currently look like at Interstates and how the competition helped them grow. 

What is your role at Interstates? 

JayCee: I’m an instrument tech. 
Jacob: I’m an apprentice electrician (E4A), working out of the Omaha regional office. 

What made you want to pursue this career path? 

JayCee: When I was learning about career opportunities, I came across instrumentation and found it very interesting. Now, it’s one of my biggest passions. 
Jacob: I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after high school, but I knew I wanted to work with my hands. I decided to go to college for electrical to better understand and learn the trade. 

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

JayCee: Seeing the plants we build start up is very rewarding. I also enjoy helping others grow their knowledge in the industry. 
Jacob: I enjoy the craftsmanship. It’s satisfying to step back and admire your completed work. 

What is the most challenging part of your job?

JayCee: For me, it’s maintaining focus when people are watching, like during the competition. 
Jacob: Meeting deadlines for customers can be challenging, especially while trying to maintain high-quality work. 

What do you appreciate about working at Interstates?

JayCee: The family culture stands out to me. 
Jacob: I agree. We’re like our own family here—we care about and support one another. 

What opportunities have you experienced at Interstates?

JayCee: I’ve been able to change career paths. I started in the prefab shop, then traveled as an electrician. After my first job site, I transitioned into instrumentation. I’ve also had the chance to travel across the country. 
Jacob: Coming in with a school background helped me get ahead. I’ve been able to lead other apprentices and share what I’ve learned. 

Let’s talk about your experience at the ABC National Craft Competition. 

How did your work at Interstates prepare you?

JayCee: The apprenticeship program and hands-on experience made a big difference. 
Jacob: Working at Interstates helped me develop skills in motor controls and conduit bending. I’ve also done a lot of troubleshooting at older facilities, which helped me during the event. 

How did you prepare for the competition?

JayCee: I spent a week in the prefab shop working with materials I hadn’t used before, especially stainless steel tubing. 
Jacob: I practiced motor controls and conduit bending at the Omaha regional office. 

What did you expect going in, and how did it compare?

JayCee: I expected it to be more challenging, but my training helped me feel prepared and confident. 
Jacob: I knew it would be stressful and competitive, and it was. I had to manage my time under pressure, which meant sacrificing some quality to finish on time. 

What was the most challenging part? 

JayCee: Staying focused with spectators watching was tough. 
Jacob: Managing time while keeping my work neat was the biggest challenge. 

How did the experience reinforce the value of training and professional growth?

JayCee: The company’s investment in my training gave me the confidence I needed. 
Jacob: It reminded me how important it is to work both safely and professionally. 

What was your favorite part of the competition? 

JayCee: Finishing the task and seeing it run was a great feeling. I also enjoyed representing Interstates and building relationships. 
Jacob: The entire experience was a highlight. I met great people and saw how others in the trade work, which gave me a broader view of the company. 

Interested in joining the Interstates team? 

Click here to explore current career opportunities.