Several CVEC employees recently participated in the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives (VMDAEC) one-day career exploration “Girl Power” camp designed to introduce young women to opportunities in the broadband and electric utility industries. The event brought together cooperative employees from Human Resources, Communications, and Operations to give students an up-close look at the skills, safety, and teamwork that power the energy and fiber networks serving their communities.
The day kicked off with an electrifying start by CVEC’s live line demonstration team. Participants gathered around the mobile safety trailer to see firsthand how crews work safely around energized equipment, use protective gear, and follow strict protocols to keep the lights on for thousands of members. For many of the attendees, it was the first time witnessing the precision, focus, and courage that lineworkers bring to the field every day.
From there, the young women rotated through hands-on sessions led by employees across the cooperative. CVEC’s HR team helped lead an engaging discussion on workplace readiness. They covered tips for interviewing with confidence, understanding of expectations in a work environment, and the importance of communication and teamwork in any role. The session encouraged students to ask questions, explore career paths, and consider how their interests might align with roles in energy or broadband.
CVEC’s Communications employees also stepped in to lead and mentor a group of participants throughout the day. Team members walked the girls through the dynamic world of public relations, storytelling, member outreach, and crisis communication, highlighting how communicators support the utility by keeping the public informed and engaged. Throughout the event, communicators were onsite to support media inquiries and provide interviews to local outlets covering the camp.
Each student group rotated through stations to operate power tools, use line equipment, and even try their skills at climbing a pole. By the end of the day, attendees left with new skills, stronger confidence, and a deeper understanding of the many rewarding careers available in the broadband and electric fields.
This year marks CVEC’s 5th time participating in the VMDAEC’s Girl Power Camp since it began, underscoring the cooperative’s commitment not only to community engagement but also to elevating young voices and creating pathways for women in traditionally male-dominated industries.
