Fall 2019

Students explore energy careers

Students

The students created an ad for MGE's expanded Shared Solar Program.

It's not often that high school students get to spend six weeks exploring utility-related careers, but Madison Gas and Electric's (MGE) high school Career Ambassador Program (CAP) is not your average summer camp. Now in its third year, MGE's six-week program provides an in-depth look at many gas and electric utility-related careers and academic pathways unknown to most high school students. Eight students from Madison‑area high schools were nominated for the program by the Urban League of Greater Madison, Centro Hispano and the AVID TOPS program. In addition to learning about careers, students engage with a wide variety of employees in many departments including engineering, communications, environmental services, marketing, electric and natural gas operations and energy production. Students learn about office etiquette, workplace ethics, communication, emotional intelligence, diversity, attendance requirements, business culture, teamwork, office technology, organization, leadership opportunities and career advancement pathways—all skills needed in today's competitive workplace.

According to Laura Kaker, MGE Senior Talent Acquisition Partner, "The students begin the program with some nervousness and anxiety. They leave with broad knowledge, skills, friendships and self-confidence as they prepare for their future careers."

MGE's Human Resources Department coordinates the program along with a college intern who serves as the students' immediate supervisor throughout the six-week experience. For successful completion of the program, students are required to participate in a capstone project related to their specific area of interest. For example, the students working with MGE's Corporate Communications staff created an ad promoting MGE's expanded Shared Solar program. Students created the tag line and participated in a photo shoot at Middleton Municipal Airport, where the new array will be built.
 
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