Smart Energy Workforce Development program aims to increase applicant pool for energy careers

BALTIMORE (April 1, 2016) – Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE) today announced a joint effort with local workforce development agencies and vocational schools to increase awareness of job opportunities with utilities and the types of skills necessary for energy careers.

“As BGE continues to invest in the electric and natural gas systems that serve our customers, there are opportunities for individuals to build careers in energy,” said Calvin G. Butler Jr., chief executive officer for BGE. “We are committed to increasing awareness of the job opportunities and requirements at BGE, specifically for residents in the Baltimore area. The Smart Energy Workforce Development program will help cultivate well-qualified job candidates.”

Initial efforts will focus on increasing the applicant pool for the BGE Utility Trainee program, in which entry level employees develop the fundamental skills needed to work safely on the company’s natural gas and electric system. To do so, BGE will help governmental and nonprofit workforce organizations and vocational schools prepare individuals for the Construction and Skilled Trade (CAST) test, a utility industry standard that is a first step on the path to a career in energy.

Through the Smart Energy Workforce Development program more than 30 organizations in central Maryland will receive access to BGE’s CAST Test Preparation Course. BGE is also providing train-the-trainer workshops to prepare these organizations’ instructors for leading the Test Preparation Course. This will enable these organizations to focus on helping individuals be better prepared job applicants.

“Access to skilled jobs with competitive pay and benefits is a critical component to empowering local residents to contribute to the local economy,” said OneBaltimore Chair and BGE Board Member Michael Cryor. “Through this program, BGE is helping to better inform the future workforce of exactly what they can do to be prepared for opportunities in the energy industry. That benefits residents and helps ensure BGE can continue to fill positions with qualified individuals.”

BGE is also marking the graduation of 15 new Overhead Mechanics from its most recent Utility Trainee program. These skilled employees have completed their classroom training and now join the company’s front lines in working to ensure safe and reliable electric and natural gas service for BGE customers.

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