Electrical Level 3

Richard “Rick” Cusson is a Master Electrician with extensive experience in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical work. He spent 15 years working as a Master Electrician for the State of Vermont and previously owned and operated his own electrical contracting company, where he specialized in a wide range of electrical installations and services. 

Before entering the civilian workforce, Rick served six years in the United States Navy as an electrician. Following his military service, he completed a formal electrical apprenticeship, building the foundation for a successful career in the electrical industry. His interest in the trade began in high school, where he studied electrical occupations during both his junior and senior years. 

As an instructor, Rick is passionate about helping students develop a strong understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC), Fire Alarm Code, and Life Safety Code. He believes that mastering the NEC is essential for understanding why industry standards exist and for building a strong foundation for safe and effective electrical work. 

Rick values the apprenticeship model because it combines classroom learning with practical experience, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the many facets of the electrical trade. His goal is to help apprentices build the knowledge, confidence, and code expertise needed to achieve their professional goals and advance toward becoming Master Electricians. 

Through his years of field experience and commitment to education, Rick brings practical insight and real-world knowledge to the classroom, helping students prepare for successful careers in the electrical industry.

Bill was first introduced to the world of electrical contracting in 1972 while helping his family renovate a building for the family print shop. Following a series of apprenticeships, he was granted a Vermont Master’s Electrician License in 1992 which he holds today. As a business owner and working for 3 major companies in the area, Bill found a certain pull to share his skills with the folks he worked with and in 2016 he broadened his reach by joining forces with Vermont State University as an instructor in the Electrical Apprentice program. 

Certifications that he holds today:  

Vermont State Master’s Electricians License 

Vermont State TPQ Fire Alarm License 

Vermont State Propane Gas Installer License  

OSHA Certified Instructors Certificate

George Patenaude is a Vermont Master Electrician with more than 40 years of experience in the electrical field. A U.S. Naval Reserve veteran, he began his career at Electricians Mate a School, where he trained in shipboard wiring, power systems, and motor controls. After active duty, George worked on major projects across Vermont, including installations at IBM Essex Junction, the University Mall, and Kraft Foods.  

He later served as a plant electrician for Vermont Teddy Bear Company and spent over two decades at the University of Vermont’s Physical Plant, where he advanced to Trades Supervisor overseeing multiple campus facilities. In addition to his professional work, George served 40 years in the U.S. Armed Services, including 16 years with the Vermont National Guard.  

For nearly two decades, George has taught Electrical 3 in Vermont’s Apprenticeship Program, where he shares his deep technical knowledge and passion for mentoring the next generation of electricians. Beyond his trade, George has also given back to his community as a longtime leader with the Boy Scouts of America, serving over 10 years as a Den Leader and Troop Scout Master. He is also the owner of Patenaude Electrical Services.