As families nationwide gear up for Mother's Day celebrations, Janet Baker and her son, Hunter Baker, are taking a different path. Both employed by Canyon State Electric, a prominent electrical contractor, they are immersed in the development of multimillion-dollar electrical systems.
Janet Baker launched her career in the construction sector more than three decades ago. Initially starting as a receptionist, she swiftly moved into project management.
When her son Hunter was searching for post-high school employment, Janet directed him towards the construction industry. "I was 18 and just looking for somewhere that wasn’t fast food," Hunter recalled. "She got me in touch with the owner of her company, and he started me in the warehouse."
Electrical Apprenticeship
Now, seven years later, Hunter is nearing the completion of his electrical apprenticeship, seeking to earn the status of journeyman electrician. "I love troubleshooting and the craftsmanship. When you pipe a room, or you see something that looks off and you fix it, you stand back, and it’s like, ‘Wow, that looks great.’ That makes me feel really good," Hunter expressed.
Though Janet and Hunter's professional collaboration influences their personal lives, it brings unexpected dynamics into their home discussions. "What order is high voltage color?" Hunter often quizzes his mother. Janet, amused, shares, "He likes to quiz me because I’m not an electrician. I don’t have to know how to wire a building. But it’s really nice having somebody in the family to talk to about it."
Project Management
"All the stuff she does, I don’t ever get to see for the most part," Hunter notes. "It’s cool because I get to hear about the job and think about how her side will work here in the field." Despite his enthusiasm for hands-on electrical work, Hunter aspires to transition into office roles in the future. "I think doing estimating or project management work would be neat, but I’m not sure yet. That’s why electrical is great; you can branch out into so many different things," Hunter reflected.
The Bakers intend to spend Mother’s Day enjoying time with the rest of Janet’s children and grandchildren.
