[Syria, Virginia] – Central Virginia Electric Cooperative (CVEC) attended the VICE Conference (Virginia Institute for Cooperative Education), where we supported students from local schools in gaining leadership skills and exploring career opportunities.
The VICE Conference is an annual event dedicated to educating high school students about the cooperative business model and leadership development. Hosted by the Virginia Cooperative Council, the conference provides an immersive experience where students engage in hands-on activities, participate in team-based business simulations, and interact with industry professionals. Through workshops and interactive sessions, attendees gain valuable insights into how cooperatives function, the impact they have on local communities, and the career opportunities they offer. The conference fosters networking, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving skills, empowering students to become future cooperative leaders.
The VICE Conference serves as a dynamic platform for students to connect with industry leaders, develop new skills, and envision their futures. Among the students who attended, Isaiah Turner stood out as a Nelson County student and stated, “Attending the VICE Conference was an incredible experience that opened my eyes to new leadership skills and career opportunities. I learned how to communicate better, work as a team, and think critically about challenges—skills that will help me in school and beyond. Meeting professionals from electric cooperatives also showed me how these careers impact our communities, and I’m excited to explore where this path could lead me!"
“We are committed to investing in our youth and providing opportunities that empower them to achieve their goals,” said Tiffany Gordon, Communications Assistant at Central Virginia Electric Cooperative. “Seeing students like Isaiah embrace the learning experience at VICE is inspiring.”
CVEC continues to support education and leadership initiatives that help shape future generations.
More information about VICE can be found at: http://www.virginia.coop/youth-activities/vice/
Photo credit: Virginia, Maryland, Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives (VMDAEC)
