Eighteen high school students completed the first SWW Energy/STEM Career Academy hosted by the Center of Excellence and FWEE. Students spent three days immersed in the energy industry and learning about the many career opportunities available. Activities included a build your own hydropower module, building a hydrogen fueled car, climbing a power pole, career planning, and so much more.

Students were able to tour Mossyrock Dam and its powerhouse and fish hatchery, as well as First Mode’s proving grounds, where they are testing and converting mine trucks to run on hydrogen or diesel/electric hybrid. As part of those experiences students were able to connect with project managers, linemen, engineers, human resources managers, and other professionals in the field.

A big THANK YOU to all our sponsors, partners, and gracious hosts who made this possible. Without them, we would not have been able to make this happen. FWEE, Tacoma Power, First Mode, Lewis County PUD, Chelan County PUD, Centralia College, Cowlitz County PUD, and others had a hand in helping pull off this Academy.

students in a classroom
a group of students in safety vests and hard hats standing in front of a large mining truck
two girls turn away from being splashed by a fish in a hatchery trough
a student looks out at a dam and the landscape