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About Us: Powering Futures in the Electrical Trade

Here’s the updated “About Us” page incorporating the new details:


About Us: Powering Futures in the Electrical Trade

At Glacier Electrical Apprentice Resources (GEAR), located in the heart of Helena Flats, Montana, our mission is to illuminate pathways to success for aspiring and experienced electricians alike. We are dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive electrical education that meets the evolving demands of the industry and the rigorous standards of the Montana Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Building on this strong foundation, we proudly opened our doors to the general public in June 2024, extending our proven curriculum and expert instruction to a wider audience eager to enter or advance within the electrical trade.

Our Journey: From Local Roots to Online Excellence

Our story began as an integral part of the Star Electric Apprenticeship Program, where we honed our craft in delivering top-tier electrical training. From the very beginning, we committed to excellence by integrating the industry-leading Mike Holt curriculum, ensuring our apprentices received a robust and authoritative education in electrical code and theory.

Under new ownership

A significant turning point arrived in January 2025, when the school was acquired by Robert Ray. Under Robert’s visionary leadership, GEAR transitioned to an online-only format, embracing the power of digital learning to provide unparalleled flexibility and accessibility. This strategic move ensures that quality electrical education is available to students across Montana and beyond, no matter where they are located.

We went public

Building on this strong foundation and recognizing a growing need for skilled electricians across the region, we proudly opened our doors to the general public in June 2024. This pivotal moment allowed us to extend our highly-regarded, state-approved curriculum and expert instruction beyond our initial internal programs. It meant that individuals throughout Montana, previously without direct access to such comprehensive training, could now embark on a rewarding career in the electrical trade, benefiting from the same quality education that had consistently produced top-tier professionals. This expansion marked our commitment to strengthening the overall electrical workforce in our community and beyond.

Robert Ray

Robert Ray

Founder & Lead Instructor 

Leading the charge at Glacier Electrical Apprentice Resources is Robert Ray, a master electrician whose career spans over two decades of electrifying expertise.

Robert’s extensive background includes:

  • 20 years of electrifying expertise
  • Formerly powered up Microsoft’s projects as a key electrical contributor
  • Lit up Antarctica’s horizons as the electrical foreman, overseeing critical infrastructure in extreme conditions
  • NFPA 70 & 70E Certified Instructor

Currently, Robert is dedicated to illuminating minds at GEAR by training the next generation of electricians. His passion for the trade extends beyond GEAR; Robert also serves as an adjunct professor at Flathead Valley Community College, where he continues to inspire and educate. His real-world experience, combined with his commitment to teaching and his specialized certifications, provides GEAR students with an invaluable learning experience rooted in practical application, safety, and industry best practices.