The entire Energy and Utilities Career Academy at Independence High School brought science to life in an innovative, hands-on event for some very special guests.
Sophomores hosted an energy carnival in the gym with games teaching the importance and science of energy and energy production, ways to save energy, and how their choices affect the environment. IHS Juniors taught hands-on science activities highlighting the principles of energy use and production. IHS Seniors organized a career fair in the cafeteria introducing the 8th graders to STEM jobs in the energy sector and provided information to guide students along this pathway. Senior booths also included professionals from local companies including PG&E and Sothern California Gas Company.
“This fair opens doors for the 8th grade students by allowing them to understand the opportunities available at Independence High, ask questions, and be excited for their future. As a senior, I am happy to help them since I have been in their shoes. It’s comforting to have some knowledge of STEM careers as they enter their freshman year.” - Leslie Contreras, IHS Senior Academy student
The first event of its kind was hosted by IHS on February 16, 2017, and was a great success. Organizers say they will make it an annual priority.
The IHS Energy & Utilities Career Academy is a PG&E Better Together Community Program. To meet energy industry workforce needs, PG&E created the high school training program in partnership with the California Department of Education (CDE). The PG&E program was launched in 2010 to inspire California’s youth to pursue science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. Since its inception, PG&E has donated more than $100,000 to the program at Independence High School.