Introduction to Peoples Gas Bright Futures U
High school students from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) spent a morning at the Peoples Energy Training Center in Little Village to take their next steps in a program that launches careers. Peoples Gas Bright Futures U is a joint initiative between Chicago Public Schools and Peoples Gas that provides classroom and hands-on experience in the energy industry. Students who complete the program have jobs waiting for them when they graduate high school.
The Program Structure
Recently, two groups of students were at the Peoples Gas training facility. They include high school juniors from across the city who are starting the training program. Seventy-six students are currently in this phase of the program. Their parents and guardians were invited today, as well, to learn more about the training and opportunities. Many students who complete the initial phase of Peoples Gas Bright Futures U work as paid summer interns at Peoples Gas.
Hands-on Experience
The other group of students at the training center today are in the program’s third and final phase. This phase features a direct path into the Chicago workforce. The 17 students in this phase are high school seniors. Upon completion of the program next month, most — if not all — of the students will be offered positions as project workers at Peoples Gas, with starting dates after their high school graduation.
Benefits of the Program
“What these young men and women are learning now can serve as the foundation for lifelong careers,” says Laura Budzinski, manager of technical training for Peoples Gas. “Our partnership with Chicago Public Schools is a unique way to invest in students’ futures and strengthen our communities with a workforce that reflects all who live here.” “This program trains young Chicagoans for good-paying jobs and lifelong skills,” says Jason Carter, president of Local 18007 Gas Workers, the union that represents Peoples Gas project workers. “The students are learning work that’s critical to Chicago’s energy infrastructure and to keeping our neighborhoods vibrant.”
Success Stories
Four current, full-time Peoples Gas team members joined the company in recent years through Bright Futures U. Each has since been promoted to a higher role at the company. The training is part of the Peoples Gas Energy Career Academy, which develops the Chicago workforce through multiple career pipelines.
Conclusion
Peoples Gas Bright Futures U is a unique program that provides high school students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the energy industry and secure jobs after graduation. The program’s success is evident in the number of students who have been promoted to higher roles within the company. As the program continues to grow, it is likely to have a positive impact on the Chicago workforce and community.
FAQs
Q: What is Peoples Gas Bright Futures U?
A: Peoples Gas Bright Futures U is a joint initiative between Chicago Public Schools and Peoples Gas that provides classroom and hands-on experience in the energy industry.
Q: What are the benefits of the program?
A: The program provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the energy industry, secure jobs after graduation, and develop lifelong skills.
Q: How many students are currently in the program?
A: There are 76 students in the initial phase of the program and 17 students in the final phase.
Q: What kind of jobs do students get after completing the program?
A: Students who complete the program are offered positions as project workers at Peoples Gas, with starting dates after their high school graduation.
Q: Is the program successful?
A: Yes, four current, full-time Peoples Gas team members joined the company through Bright Futures U and have since been promoted to higher roles.
