Every day, technology is changing and advancing how energy is generated and distributed through the electric grid. As the field becomes more specialized, utilities, and especially electric cooperatives, are continually looking for young talent who want to start and grow their career making a difference in the evolving energy industry.
Careers in this area extend beyond linemen who are the most visible representation of the co-op and its operations. At Farmers Electric, we have a broad range of highly trained professionals working “behind the scenes,” too. Accounting and finance, member services, information technology, communications and billing are key areas that require skilled personnel to effectively run our business.
In June, the co-op will send one student representative on the 2024 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, an annual tradition for hundreds of students to travel to Washington, D.C., and learn more about the electric cooperative business model. The free trip includes plenty of sightseeing and face-to-face interactions with our legislators.
In May, we will announce our 2024 scholarship winners. This is an opportunity for high school seniors – regardless of their intended area of study – to get some financial assistance as they continue their education.
Both of these annual youth opportunities are essential to inspiring the next generation of electric cooperative leaders, even right here at home. As an exciting, challenging and fast-paced industry, energy development and delivery will require top talent to meet shifting market and consumer demands over the next decades. While some areas require years of training, other positions offer on-the-job training, meaning you are paid while you’re learning.
If you or someone you know is struggling to find a career that not only suits them, but also pays well with excellent benefits and employee culture, consider working for an electric cooperative like Farmers Electric. We are happy to host students for a job shadow day to let them see how our cooperative works firsthand. Just give us a call anytime to find out more!