“We just asked this group of kids how many knew what a lineman was. None of them knew.”
Aaron Anderson, operations supervisor — We Energies, and his co-workers are on a mission to teach Milwaukee-area high school students about careers in energy.
“It’s a very good career to get into. There’s a high reward, with little debt that you would get from college,” Anderson said.
Demo Days
On a sunny Wednesday in October, dozens of high school juniors attended Demo Days at the We Energies Bluemound Training Center. It’s an interactive field trip designed for students to learn what it takes to keep the lights on and energy flowing.
Students can ride in a bucket truck, learn how to operate a backhoe and stop a simulated natural gas leak.
“They get hands-on experience to really get a feel of something they might want to do in the future,” Anderson said.
The students are all interested in the company’s nationally recognized internship and apprenticeship programs.
Hundreds take part in Demo Days every year, but fewer than 20 will be selected to earn a paycheck and work full time over the summer alongside We Energies employees.
More than an internship
Just a few years ago, Eliel Alvarez was one of those lucky students selected for a line mechanic internship. Now he’s working toward a technical degree in electrical power distribution at Milwaukee Area Technical College.
“This program changed my life. It has built my character and helped me to become a better person,” Alvarez said.
In addition to learning a trade, We Energies offers students life coaching that focuses on boosting confidence, increasing self-awareness and building resilience. Interns and apprentices take money management courses, are given job interview and resume training, and are paired with an employee who serves as a life mentor.
Alvarez will graduate next spring and hopes to join We Energies full time soon after. For now, he’s volunteering his time to help the next class of juniors find their calling.
“If you get this opportunity, I would take it right away,” Alvarez said.
Anderson couldn’t agree more.
“These jobs give you a sense of purpose,” he said.