I enjoy everything about this program, and I am so happy that I decided to join. College was not the move for me so I couldn’t be more happy to have found this as an alternative. The staff is incredible and made it very welcoming for all the students. I cannot wait to see where I am in these next few months.

From the day I first toured VTA as a prospective student, it was clear that this was a unique offering within the Hampton Roads area. Few if any others offer such an in-depth, hands-on approach to learning the trades. The faculty here is knowledgeable, approachable, and always willing to share their experience in the field, or dedicate some time to help a student who is struggling or answering questions. I’d absolutely recommend Virginia Technical Academy to anyone in Hampton Roads looking to start - or expand - their career in the trades.

I have had the best experience at Virginia Technical Academy.  I came into the apprenticeship program with no experience and I feel like I have learned so much about electricity and the trade.  Dave and the other instructors go out of their way to make sure the students are getting the knowledge and hands (on) experience needed to be successful after completing the apprenticeship.  The passion and professionalism from the instructors and staff (are) one of a kind and you won’t find it anywhere else.  Thanks, VTA for helping me be the best I can in the electrical trade.

I began this apprentice program in late May.  Because of the COVID crisis, I started with the online program.  I found that being able to learn at my own pace was extremely helpful during the summer months because I have 3 kids and we were all staying home.  Once the school was able to open, I did come in to get some of my hands-on instruction and practicals done.  I immediately found that in person learning makes a huge difference in my understanding of the lessons.  I was able to ask questions and get clarification on the material in real time.  Although I had already completed levels 1 & 2 through the online instruction, I decided it would benefit me to sit in class & receive actual instruction.  It absolutely has!  Where before I had a somewhat understanding of the material, now having been in the class, I can say with confidence that I get it.  And as I am training to be an electrician, getting and understanding the material is extremely important.

First and most important, I have not met anyone who has not gone out of their way to assist me with anything that I needed help with.  If they didn’t have the answer, they found the answer.  I have learned so many things in this course.  My confidence with working with my hands and tools has increased.  My instructor, Tal, is awesome.  He is patient and thorough.  Will is just as awesome and I am learning in his fast-paced class.  I also cannot forget Gwen and Ryan who work tirelessly to ensure things run smoothly for our class.  If you are looking for a trade school, VTA is it.

Virginia Technical Academy has taught me a lot over the course of five months.  During level one, two and three, I have learned about circuit breakers, fuses, wiring methods.  How to set up a breaker box and how the currents work.  The school and its staff have been a huge help and I couldn’t thank them enough.  One of the most interesting subjects I learned in class was about motors (AC-DC) capacitors.  Never knew how it all worked.  The first time that I came to this school, I had some knowledge but didn’t know anything else.  Nick helped me understand the material and advanced my knowledge in the trade.  The president, Dave Gillespie, works hard for the school and he always makes sure that his students pass.  Over the course of level one and two, I am more confident in what I have gained.  I would absolutely recommend people to attend Virginia Technical Academy.