Meet Damon Bernath, a man of many talents whose journey has been anything but ordinary. With over 20 years of experience as a skilled electrician, Damon has turned his passion for electrical work into a thriving career that goes beyond installations and repairs. He’s recently added “author” to his list of accomplishments with the release of his first book, The Current That Connects Us: The Remarkable Journey of a Journeyman, now available on Amazon. In his book, Damon shares the lessons he’s learned over decades of hands-on experience, mentoring others, and pushing the boundaries of being a leader in his field.
But Damon’s ambitions don’t stop there. He’s also the host of Shocking Insights, a podcast dedicated to educating listeners about electrical work, home renovation, and how to make energy-efficient choices in their daily lives. His focus on mentoring the next generation of electricians is a testament to his commitment to giving back, ensuring that the knowledge and skills he’s developed continue to empower others.
How did you get started in your field?
I grew up in a hands-on household, where fixing things and understanding how they worked was part of everyday life. After graduating from Colerain High School in 1989, I knew I wanted to pursue a career where I could use my technical skills and work with my hands. In 1994, I started my apprenticeship at VBE Electric, and that’s when everything clicked for me. It was an incredible experience because I had mentors who pushed me to learn, question, and think critically about electrical systems. That laid the groundwork for what would become a lifelong passion.
What was the “aha” moment that sparked your leadership journey?
In 1999, when I became a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 212, I started taking on more responsibility in managing projects and teams. I quickly realized that being an electrician wasn’t just about technical work but also about leadership, especially in complex projects. One of those moments was while working on the addition of the University of Cincinnati dormitory. I had to coordinate several teams and contractors to make sure the electrical installation went smoothly. That experience gave me a clearer perspective on the importance of strong leadership and communication in the field.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge in my field is staying ahead of the technology curve. Electrical systems and standards are constantly evolving. For example, when we worked on upgrading the electrical system at Miami Oxford University, there were significant changes in technology that required retraining and adapting quickly. I make it a point to stay educated, attend workshops, and learn new codes. Additionally, I had to learn to balance leadership roles with hands-on work over time.
How has your work impacted the industry or your community?
One of the things I’m proud of is the safety and reliability improvements we’ve introduced through our projects. For instance, our work at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base involved upgrading systems directly impacting safety standards. On a more local level, I always try to ensure that projects I lead benefit the client and the broader community. In my home renovation projects, I help homeowners create energy-efficient spaces, which reduces costs and environmental impact.
What sets your leadership style or innovation apart from others in the field?
I believe in leading by example. In electrical work, precision is everything, so I emphasize quality and attention to detail in every project. I also focus on mentorship. I make it a point to guide newer electricians, just like my mentors did for me during my apprenticeship. I think that’s what sets our team apart—we’re always learning and improving, but we never sacrifice quality.
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs or leaders in your industry?
My biggest advice would be to find a mentor and never stop learning. The industry changes constantly, and if you want to stay relevant, you need to invest in your education. Also, learn how to lead a team, not just a project. People skills are as important as technical skills in this field.
Can you share a project that showcases your leadership or innovation?
The project I’m most proud of is the modernization of the electrical system at Miami Oxford University. It was an extensive, multi-phase project that required integrating new technologies while maintaining the campus’s historical integrity. I led the team responsible for the electrical upgrades, and the success of the project came down to solid planning and teamwork. It wasn’t just about installing wires—it was about ensuring that the new system was future-proof and sustainable.
How have you continued to evolve in your career?
I’ve made a conscious effort to stay involved with both my local IBEW chapter and broader industry networks. Technology is evolving fast, so I attend seminars and collaborate with other professionals to stay ahead. I also launched a podcast, Shocking Insights, on Spotify, where I talk about the latest trends in electrical work, home renovation, and safety standards.
What role has mentorship and networking played in your success?
Mentorship was everything for me early on, and I try to pay that forward. I encourage young electricians to reach out for advice and share what I’ve learned. Networking is equally important. My membership in the IBEW has opened so many doors, allowing me to work on high-profile projects and collaborate with industry leaders.
What’s next for you in your entrepreneurial journey?
I recently released my first book, ‘The Current That Connects Us: The Remarkable Journey of a Journeyman,’ available on Amazon. I’m also excited about expanding my work in home renovation. I’ve always enjoyed taking on projects that challenge my design and electrical skills. Beyond that, I want to grow Shocking Insights to create a platform where people can learn about electrical work and how to make smarter, more energy-efficient choices in their homes.
Key Takeaways
Damon Bernath continues to innovate in his field, leveraging over two decades of experience while looking ahead to new challenges. His leadership, technical skills, and passion for education make him a standout figure in electrical work and home renovation. These days, Damon is expanding his work in home renovation, taking on projects that challenge his design skills and technical expertise. His goal is to transform spaces in functional and aesthetically pleasing ways. Whether through his book, podcast, or the hands-on work he does in people’s homes, Damon is passionate about making a lasting impact on his community and industry.
Stay tuned for more insights from Damon on Shocking Insights on Spotify.
