High voltage worker stories: Cody Breeden

Title

foreman/journeyman substation electrician

Location: Apple Valley, California 
years in the trade: 8 years

@cbmf413

Stories in the trade

This series hands the mic to the folks who keep the lights on—how they got in, what they’ve seen, and where the trade’s headed

NOMINATE A CREW MEMBER

Tell us what to cover next

What do you wish someone had told you when you first started on the job?

That your body is your career. Take care of it early on, don't be a hero just to prove how tough you are. Listen more than you talk. The seasoned guys might seem rough, but they've survived in this trade for a reason. Pay attention to how they move, rig, and solve problems,  they're teaching lessons you won't find in any book.

What's one thing about this work that outsiders totally misunderstand?

People often think what we do is straightforward physical labor. The truth is, it's a whole lot more. This job takes skill, discipline, grit, and constant focus. It's dangerous work that demands sacrifice, and until you live it, most people will never really understand what it takes.

How did you first hear about the trade, and how did you get into your first roLe?

I followed in my father's footsteps. He's been a substation electrician for over 15 years, and watching him inspired me to join the IBEW. He also helped me get my start as a substation apprentice, and I've been pushing forward ever since.

Substation upgrade

500KV disconnect malfunction

What kind of training/education did you have to do to get this job?

The aftermath of the 500kv disconnect

I finished high school and then got into the trade. From there, I went through the four-year apprenticeship. Once I completed all that, I earned my journeyman ticket. Honestly, most of what I’ve learned has come from on-the-job training. I’ve never been the type to retain much from books alone. I’m a hands-on learner, and that’s where I’ve always done my best and picked up the most valuable skills.

How do you handle stacking OT or traveling for the job while having a family?

Truthfully, it's not easy. The long hours and travel take a toll, but the best way I've found to make it work for myself and my family is to bring them with me. I bought a fifth wheel so we can travel together, and it's been a game-changer. Having them close keeps me grounded and makes the sacrifices easier on everyone.

What's your proudest moment in the job so far?

Hands down, teaching the younger generation. For me, it's about showing them the importance of doing quality work and taking pride in it whether someone's watching or not. Giving 110% every time and passing that mindset down has been one of my proudest contributions to the trade.
Title

Most of all, it’s more than a job—it’s a brotherhood. You’ll depend on your crew with your life, and they’ll depend on you.

Title

Who thrives in this work?

Who doesnt thrive?

Physically tough

Anyone who's complacent or careless 

Mentally strong

Thin-skinned 

Eager to learn

Afraid of heights 

TEAM ORIENTED

UNRELIABLE

A hard worker through and through

JUST CHASING THE PAYCHECK

What advice would you give to someone just thinking about joining the trades?

Know what you're signing up for. This is not a 9–5 job. You're going to work your ass off, day in and day out. 
Be humble, be teachable, and never stop learning. The pay is great, but don't let it own you. 

Be ready for hard but rewarding work.

 

Most of all, it's more than a job, it's a brotherhood. You'll depend on your crew with your life, and they'll depend on you.

 

That bond is one of the best parts of the trade.

we’re opening the floor to the folks who do the work

⚡ Features of real workers in the trade 
⚡ Craft features 

⚡ Tips for the trade

Just real experiences, real lessons learned, and real advice from people who do this work every day.

We want to hear from you

NOMINATE A CREW MEMBER

Tell us what to cover next

We're High Voltage Industries

High Voltage Industries started because the most dangerous and essential work in America is also the most invisible. You put your lives on the line every single day and people don't even know what you do. 

 

We're here to share your stories and honor the sacrifices you make so people can flip a switch every day. And we make gear for those who literally risk their lives to keep the world running.

This is your story

Working in conditions others won't face, taking risks others can’t even imagine, solving problems others can't understand, carrying responsibility others can't handle. The grid doesn't maintain itself.

 

We're telling that story.