The AEP/PSO (Public Service Company of Oklahoma) Oklaunion Power Plant is partnering with Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) to host a “Power Up Road Show” for high school students who are in grades 9-12, and for educators and parents interested in learning more about outstanding career opportunities for their students.
Monte McMahon, Plant Manager for AEP/PSO Oklaunion Power Plant, notes that any students considering careers in engineering, or who enjoy hands-on work, would find this an excellent fit. “Representatives of OSUIT will talk about our partnership, as well as possible paid internships with AEP/PSO Oklaunion Power Plant for students earning their degree at OSUIT in fields such as Power Plant Technology, Electronic Technology, Construction and Engineering. For prospective students who want to separate themselves from the crowd, this is a ‘must-attend’ event.”
There will be tours of the power plant and presentations about career opportunities, salaries, as well as the skills and education that are required.
The “Power Up Road Show” consists of open houses hosted by various industries that allow students to meet with representatives and gain an understanding of the potential internship opportunities and careers that are available to students earning a degree from OSUIT. With OSUIT’s unique trimester format, most associate in applied science degrees can be earned in just two years and bachelor of technology degrees can be earned in as little as three years. According to exit interviews with graduates of OSUIT’s power plant program, 100% of the graduates are immediately employed.
Kate Pittack, OSUIT’s director of special events, says, “A benefit of the road shows is that the events are held at the actual businesses, giving those who attend the opportunity to visit with employees and see the actual work environments to gain a better understanding of what these jobs are actually like.”
The next road show will be:
AEP/PSO’s Oklaunion Power Station in Vernon, Texas – May 8 at 6 p.m. at 12567 FM Road 3430 in Vernon, Texas
Pittack added, “Careers at power plants are wide open for new employees and there are plenty of advancement opportunities and great benefits for OSUIT graduates.” According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an estimated 30% of the current power operators are expected to retire. This means excellent employment opportunities. The utility industry is opening its doors to share the education and work requirements for persons interested in high-paying positions. The median wage in 2008 was $58,470, and an associate in applied science degree in power plant increases a person’s employability.
Free food is provided at each event. For more information on the open house or to register to attend, please go to www.osuit.edu and click on the Power Up Open House link below the events calendar. You can also contact Kate Pittack at (918)293-5220 or via email at kate.pittack@okstate.edu. Each student may be accompanied by one guardian over the age of 18. In addition, everyone must wear closed toe shoes, and the preferred dress is jeans and cotton shirt.
