For students in Delcastle’s Electrical Trades program, the classroom is just the beginning. In December, a group of students had the opportunity to take their learning to new heights—literally—on a behind-the-scenes field trip to one of the most iconic sports venues in the region: Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Led by instructor Mr. Chris Panico, the trip gave students a rare look at the intricate systems that power a 67,000-seat stadium. From the solar panels on the roof to the maze of wiring beneath the field, the experience opened their eyes to the scale and sophistication of commercial electrical work—and the career possibilities that come with it.
“Lincoln Financial Field is one of the most progressive and impressive engineering wonders close to Delcastle,” Panico explained. “It was the perfect opportunity to introduce students to real-world commercial construction.”
During the tour, students explored areas rarely seen by the public, including the electrical control rooms and power systems. They also observed maintenance electricians—some of whom are part of Local Union 98, the same union that constructed the facility and now maintains its electrical infrastructure.
“This wasn’t just about learning how a building works,” Panico added. “It was about showing students a future career. Local 98 is a hiring hall that educates, trains, and puts electricians to work. Some of our students could be the next professionals working on sites like this.”
For many students, seeing the systems in action was both inspiring and validating.
“The most inspiring part of my visit was seeing the systems that were set up by people in the same career area I’m aspiring to go into,” said David Krah '28.
Denise Garcia '28 was impressed by the sustainable energy systems. “All the electricity is stored in the solar panels,” she noted. “I didn’t realize just how much electrical work goes into powering something like a stadium.”
Others connected their shop experience directly to what they saw on site. “I was able to see the real-world scale of what I would do in shop to a real work site,” said Nicholas Fletcher '28. Zavion Green '28 agreed, adding, “I saw so many of the same components we use in shop—light bulbs, speakers, wiring—but in a much bigger and more complex setting.”
In addition to the technical knowledge gained, students also identified personal growth moments connected to the SkillsUSA Framework, which emphasizes personal, workplace, and technical skills. “I used motivation and work ethic,” said Denise Garcia. “This trip made me want to do better, to grow.”
That theme of growth was echoed in how the experience shaped their outlook. “I value my shop more now,” Garcia added. “This field trip has influenced my career interest for the better.” David Krah shared a similar takeaway: “This field trip has influenced my career goals by showing me how the skills I learn in Electrical Trades will be applied in real life when I get a job.”
Back in the classroom, the buzz around the trip continues. With renewed energy and insight, students are applying what they saw to what they’re building—and wiring—every day.
At Delcastle, learning doesn’t stop at the lab door. Through immersive, real-world experiences like this one, students are not only gaining technical skills—they’re discovering how those skills light the path to a brighter future.
About Delcastle’s Electrical Trades Program
Delcastle Technical High School’s Electrical Trades program prepares students for high-demand careers in electrical installation, maintenance, and systems technology. Students learn how to wire, install, and maintain electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, gaining hands-on experience that translates directly to the job site.
As part of the New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District (NCCVT), Delcastle offers 24 career and technical education (CTE) programs designed to prepare students for both college and the workforce. These programs allow students to earn industry certifications, participate in real-world learning opportunities, and graduate ready to succeed in high-skill, high-wage, high-demand careers.
To learn more about the Electrical Trades program and all of Delcastle’s CTE offerings, visit www.nccvotech.com.