A Path to Success

DELMARVA POWER CONNECTS DELAWARE STUDENTS TO ENERGY CAREERS

BY KELLY ANN DECURTIS

Delmarva Power’s Path to Success program provides Delaware high school seniors the opportunity to begin energy careers. Launched in 2020, the program provides an opportunity for students to take part in one-onone career coaching, career exploration, and professional skill building opportunities. Upon successful completion of the eight-month program, students earn a job opportunity with Delmarva Power or a partnering contractor.

During the fall, students receive specialized tutoring focused on improving their GPA, learning financial literacy, developing a resume, and honing professional development skills. In the spring of their senior year, students then receive a paid internship with Delmarva Power and study for the Construction and Skilled Trades (CAST) test, which is requirement for employment at Delmarva Power and other energy companies.

To recruit interested students, Delmarva Power worked in partnership with local schools and the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services. Delmarva Power also partnered with the Forum to Advance Minorities in Engineering (FAME) to create curriculum that focuses on human performance skills, as well as CAST test training. For additional support, Delmarva Power contracted three Delaware teachers to serve as tutors who focus on teambuilding, problem solving, and academic support through weekly meetings and workshops.

The program’s first year saw tremendous success. Of the 12 students in the first cohort, 11 received job offers and one chose to attend college. A second class was started in the fall of 2021 with graduation and job interviewing scheduled for May 2022.

The Path to Success commitment for students is in addition to traditional school responsibilities. Students interested in making the commitment beginning in their junior year should contact their school counselor for more information. To learn more about Delmarva Power and the program, visit The Source, Delmarva Power’s online newsroom. Find additional information by visiting delmarva.com.

Kelly Ann DeCurtis is the director of talent management at Delmarva Power.