By Anders J. Hare
At 22, Jahmicah Miller is on the brink of making history. As an electrical instructor, Miller is not only shaping the next generation of electricians, but she is also preparing to become the youngest licensed female electrician in North Carolina.
Her journey into the trades, however, was not a straightforward path—one that began with aspirations of becoming a physical therapist, only to take a detour into the world of electrical systems.
“I was pretty certain I was going to go into physical therapy, sports medicine, something like that,” Miller said, reflecting on her high school years in Charlotte.
Miller attended a high school with a pathway to biomedical sciences, and her initial career focus was set, but life had other plans. When Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, Miller became inspired by the disaster relief efforts, sparking an interest in finding a career where she could give back to her community.
“That was my door into the trades,” Miller said. “I realized I wanted a career where I could use my hands and contribute to others.”
After joining a high school program for juniors and seniors at Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology in 2018, Miller discovered her passion for electrical work. The trade not only aligned with her desire to help others but also appealed to her intellectual side.
“I’m a big nerd,” Miller laughed. “I wanted something that would challenge me mentally, and electrical work requires a lot of brainpower. It’s not as physically demanding as other trades, and it’s something I can see myself doing long-term.”
Miller graduated with an associate’s degree in electrical systems technology from Central Piedmont Community College, where she quickly transitioned into the workforce. Interning with various companies during high school led to a full-time position right after graduation, propelling her career forward at an impressive pace. d then as a warehouse attendant, which added to my experience and leadership skills.”
Her career progression, though swift, has been far from simple. As a Black woman in a male-dominated field, Miller had to navigate not only the technical challenges of the trade but also the social dynamics of a profession where people like her are still underrepresented.
“There’s a lot of cultural differences,” Miller said. “The trade is still dominated by one race, and it’s been important for me to advocate for myself and my skills.”
According to a 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics survey, 6.8% of electricians are Black, and only 2.4% are women. Given these statistics, it is clear that Black women are significantly underrepresented in the electrician profession
The road to becoming the youngest licensed female electrician in North Carolina has been filled with challenges, but Miller has stayed focused on her goal. Her dedication to excellence, both in the classroom and on the job site, has earned her the opportunity to teach electrical classes at ROC Charlotte. In fact, her journey has come full circle—Miller now teaches students in the same program where she once learned the trade.
As for her future, Miller has big plans. She is set to take her state exam this spring, a critical step toward earning her license.
“Once I pass, I’ll still be the youngest licensed female electrician in the state at 22,” she said. While the weight of history is on her shoulders, Miller remains grounded in her passion for the work. “I didn’t choose this dream to make history, but the community support I’ve received along the way keeps me moving forward.”
As Miller continues to make history in the electrical trade, one thing is clear: her future is bright, and she is determined to light the way for others to follow.