Her Story
About Amber
Amber Cannon is an experienced electrical professional and educator serving as an Electrical and Instrumentation Contract Trainer and Electrical Instructor at Great Basin College in Elko, Nevada. With approximately 15 years of experience in the electrical field, she is passionate about developing skilled, motivated, and safety-conscious electrical professionals.
Before transitioning into education, Amber built a diverse career in the mining and electrical industries. She spent more than a decade with Nevada Gold Mines, progressing from haul truck operator to industrial electrician, electrical planner, and electrical trainer. She later worked as a site operator/electrician and project manager, gaining valuable experience in electrical operations, planning, project management, and workforce development.
Today, Amber focuses on electrical, instrumentation, and safety training for students and industry professionals. She is an NFPA 70E trainer qualified in low- and high-voltage electrical safety and holds an Associate of Applied Science in Electrical from Great Basin College. Her expertise includes electricity, technical training, problem-solving, analytical skills, and workplace safety, with a strong commitment to making training practical, interactive, and effective.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Amber
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being open to new opportunities, continuing to learn, and having people who encouraged me to pursue a new path. After working as a truck driver, I received a scholarship to study electrical systems, which led to a career as an electrician, planner, scheduler, trainer, and project manager. Today, I have the opportunity to teach the same electrical trades program I graduated from, which I consider one of my greatest professional accomplishments.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best life and career advice I've ever received is to not wait until you feel ready to do something.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I give women the same advice I give men. Work hard, ask questions, use your resources, and have integrity.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are family, quality time, and enjoying life through meaningful experiences. I especially value spending time with my son, whether we’re hiking, camping, traveling, riding motorcycles, or working with our horses. I believe in staying active, appreciating the outdoors, and creating lasting memories with the people I care about.
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