For Fair Haven Union alumnus Keenan Donaldson, finding the right career path started before he even graduated. A member of the Class of 2023, Keenan took advantage of career and technical education and a co-op opportunity that helped turn an interest in the trades into a career he enjoys today.
While attending FHU, Keenan enrolled at Stafford Technical Center, where he studied plumbing and electrical. Through Stafford’s co-op program, he began working every other day with Long Trail Electrical Contractors. That hands-on experience proved to be an important first step toward his future.
After graduation, Keenan continued working with Long Trail Electrical Contractors and began an electrical apprenticeship program through Vermont State University Castleton. He has now completed three years of electrical classes and is beginning his fourth and final year as he works toward earning his journeyman’s license.
Once he completes his classes, Keenan expects to be eligible to become a journeyman next year. From there, after two additional years of work experience, his goal is to take the exam to earn his master electrician’s license.
Looking back on his school years, Keenan remembers two educators who made a particularly meaningful impact on him.
“First would be Mike Bruce, my homeroom teacher,” Keenan shared. “Just a nice guy. Always good to talk to.” He also credits Chris Tooley, his plumbing and electrical instructor at Stafford, as someone who helped shape his experience and career path.
Outside the classroom, Keenan was involved in baseball and bowling at FHU. When part of the Slater's bowling program, he helped earn two state titles—with his dad also serving as a bowling coach.
Today, Keenan’s hands-on interests extend well beyond his workday. He enjoys ice fishing with his friend Caleb and spending time helping his parents. In fact, he is currently putting his handyman and carpenter skills to good use by helping his parents build a house. With the exception of the concrete foundation, the family has been tackling the work themselves rather than contracting it out.
A favorite quote from his dad seems especially fitting for the career Keenan has chosen:
“If you love the work you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Keenan says that, for the most part, the saying rings true. Like anyone, he has days when work feels like work, but he knows the effort is worthwhile and is happy with the career he has chosen.
When asked what advice he would give to today’s Slater students, Keenan offered a simple reminder that comes from his own experiences:
“Take the time to do things you love. Otherwise, you may miss out.”
From Stafford’s classrooms and a high school co-op placement to an apprenticeship and a career with Long Trail Electrical Contractors, Keenan’s journey is a great example of how opportunities during high school can help students discover a path that is right for them.
We are proud to see Keenan continuing to learn, build his skills, and work toward his goals—and we look forward to seeing where his career takes him next!