Early Start
Early Start
As demand for skilled energy workers grows across the United States, natural gas utilities are exploring new ways to build the workforce needed to safely deliver reliable energy. One innovative approach from We Energies is introducing students to energy careers before they even graduate high school.
Through hands-on demonstrations, paid internships and structured apprenticeships, the utility is helping Milwaukee-area students explore careers in natural gas and electric operations while strengthening its long-term workforce pipeline.
At just 21 years old, John Woodburn is already several years into his career in natural gas distribution. Woodburn first encountered the industry during his junior year of high school at Demo Days, an annual We Energies event designed to give students a firsthand look at the skilled work that keeps energy flowing.
During the field-trip-style experience, students rotate through hands-on activity stations where they can operate heavy equipment, watch electric pole climbing demonstrations and ride in bucket trucks—all while learning about the essential roles utility workers play in their communities.
For Woodburn, the experience was eye-opening. “I really liked excavating. I enjoyed operating the machine. I also really enjoyed wrenching,” he said. “I knew I was going to be a gas worker.”
Soon after, he joined We Energies as a gas distribution apprentice while still in high school. After graduating, he transitioned into a full-time position and has steadily advanced within the company—proof that early exposure to the industry can quickly lead to meaningful opportunities.
“I really enjoy the work that we do day in and day out,” Woodburn said. “There’s never a dull day. Every day is something different.”
Each year, hundreds of students participate in Demo Days. From that group, a small cohort is selected for paid internships and apprenticeships that allow them to work alongside experienced utility employees during the summer. The program offers several career pathways:
- Gas distribution apprenticeships, where students gain field experience and can move into full-time roles after graduation.
- Line mechanic internships, which introduce students to building, maintaining and repairing the electric grid.
- Engineering design apprenticeships, providing opportunities for students interested in technical office roles supporting system planning and design.
The program is particularly valuable for students who may not plan to pursue a traditional four-year college degree but are interested in skilled trades that offer strong wages, career stability and opportunities for advancement. Many participants continue their training at Milwaukee Area Technical College before returning to We Energies as full-time employees.
Dozens of participants have already moved from student apprentices to full-time employees at We Energies.
What sets the program apart is its focus on personal development alongside technical training. In addition to learning hands-on skills, participants receive life coaching designed to build confidence, self-awareness and resilience. They also take part in financial literacy training, résumé and interview workshops, and mentorship opportunities with experienced employees.
These resources help students navigate the transition from high school to the workforce and prepare them for long-term success.
For Woodburn, the program’s impact has come full circle. Now working in the field, he occasionally returns to the same training grounds where his career began to encourage the next group of students exploring energy careers. “It’s very exciting to be here and see this,” he said. “These students have so much ahead of them if they get in here.”
As utilities nationwide work to address workforce shortages and growing demand for skilled labor, programs like this offer valuable insights for the natural gas industry. The We Energies model highlights several strategies that can help build a strong talent pipeline:
- Engage students early. Introducing energy careers in high school helps reach potential workers before they choose other paths.
- Make it experiential. Hands-on demonstrations with real equipment help students understand what the work involves and spark interest in technical careers.
- Create clear career pathways. Paid internships, apprenticeships and partnerships with technical colleges provide tangible routes into the workforce.
- Invest in mentorship and life skills. Supporting students beyond technical training helps young workers build confidence and succeed long-term.
By combining early outreach, real-world experience and strong mentorship, We Energies is helping students discover rewarding careers while strengthening the workforce that will keep America’s natural gas system operating safely and reliably for decades to come.