Stories

From Navy to the Trades: How NTI Builds Careers For Veterans

Kodi Wilson (Campus Director, National Technical Institute) and Randy Nichols (Navy Veteran, electronics technician, NTI instructor) talk with Vegas Veteran Voices, a Veteran-led nonprofit in Las Vegas.

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In this story
Kodi Wilson, Campus Director, National Technical Institute
Randy Nichols, Navy Veteran, electronics technician, NTI instructor
Service branch
Randy Nichols: U.S. Navy
Organization
National Technical Institute (NTI)
Published
Running time
45 minutes (45:46)
Production
Filmed by Vegas Veteran Voices, a Veteran-led nonprofit in Las Vegas

About this story

What does it take to go from serving in the U.S. Navy to leading a classroom and shaping the next generation of tradesmen? Meet Campus Director Kodi Wilson and alumni turned instructor, Navy Veteran Randy Nichols, two voices driving the mission of National Technical Institute in Las Vegas & Henderson.

This episode dives into NTI’s accelerated programs in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical courses designed to take students from entry-level to employable in just a matter of months. With a heavy focus on hands-on labs, real-world diagnostics, and no-nonsense teaching, NTI is building more than just skills. It’s building confidence, resilience, and careers that last.

Randy shares his journey from electronics technician in the Navy to NTI graduate to full-time instructor, proving that Veterans have the discipline and drive to thrive in the trades. Kodi offers insight into NTI’s vision as Campus Director: empowering students, connecting with employers, and creating programs that fit real lives.

In this episode, you’ll discover:
, Why NTI’s accelerated format works for Veterans and career changers alike
, How lab-first training replaces outdated textbook-heavy models
, The unique grit and integrity Veterans bring to the classroom
, Real stories of transformation, from student to skilled professional
, How confidence and opportunity grow when skills meet purpose

Whether you’re a Veteran exploring your GI Bill benefits or someone ready to break into the skilled trades, NTI’s mission is clear: empower people with employable skills that create lasting opportunity for families and communities.

Learn more about NTI’s programs:
https://www.ntitraining.com

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