From News Desk

Duke Energy Florida and more than 20 neighboring utilities, education institutions and community organisations recently completed six summer Youth Energy Academy (YEA) events across Florida. The programmes exposed more than 200 students to an inside look at the many career opportunities that exist in the energy industry.

Nationally, the energy sector faces an increasing workforce gap in both operations roles and STEM careers. Programmes like YEA help build the pipeline of skilled workers to fill current and future energy roles. The academy provides Florida students with hands-on exposure to careers in STEM and utility operations.

Students are often unaware of the wide variety of careers in energy, including cybersecurity, engineering, clean energy technologies, communications and utility operations. Through interactive workshops, facility tours, mentorship and direct engagement with industry leaders, students spark an early interest in a career in energy.

This Year’s Student Impact

Events were hosted this summer in Lake Wales, Jacksonville, St Petersburg, Gainesville, Ocala and Orlando, where students participated in one or two-day educational sessions.

Post-event surveys showed an increased awareness and interest in careers across the energy industry –

–St Petersburg: 63% reported increased interest in pursuing these career pathways.

–Gainesville: 89% reported being more likely to consider an energy, utility, or STEM career after attending.

–Orlando: 69% reported increased interest in energy and STEM careers.