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Building the Pipeline of STEM Talent in Memphis

TVA invests time to teach students about career paths.

Students at Power Center Academy in Memphis know a little more about energy, environment and economic development, following a recent career day held at the school. Several TVA representatives shared their experiences in energy career fields – from roles focused on generating energy at a plant to managing customer relations and regulatory compliance. The team also highlighted TVA’s mission of service and how these career opportunities directly contribute to the “three Es.”

“We can all give something back. Children are our future,” noted Jeffery Carter, Combined Cycle Lead Operations Tech at Allen Combined Cycle Natural Gas Plant in Memphis. “It is great to open students’ minds to how engineering is a part of our everyday lives and possibly a career path for their futures.”

Throughout the day, classes of students gathered around as Carter and others taught about how electricity is made and then quizzed students on lesson topics. Everyone left with fun and educational TVA trinkets, like drawstring backpacks, rulers, pencils, notepads, sunglasses and more.

Carter recalled a highlight from the day. “My favorite part was when a first grader gave his ideas on how to make electricity. ‘You can use a treadmill, excite it, and make electricity,’ he said. He might have a job at TVA someday!” 

Power Center Academy Professional School Counselor Samantha McGuire extended the invitation for TVA to help train and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.

“TVA fosters STEM, which is a growing industry. Power Center Academy Elementary School – Southeast is a STEM-focused school, which is why it is important for companies like TVA to participate in elementary career days. Gestalt Community Schools and Power Center Academy have a cohesive goal of increasing college graduation rates among youth. Days like today provide scholars exposure to different careers at a young age and grade. Scholars can gain knowledge about innovative careers that will help our future leaders to work and to think locally and globally,” she concluded.

For more information about how TVA is supporting your local community, follow us on Twitter @TVA_Memphis.

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