Smart Energy Workforce Development Program

The Smart Energy Workforce Development (SEWD) program is a joint effort with local workforce development agencies and career technology schools to increase awareness of job opportunities with utilities and the types of skills necessary for energy careers.

• BGE has helped more than 30 governmental and nonprofit workforce organizations and career technology 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. Passing the CAST test is a requirement for 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.
• The SEWD program also includes a partnership with four Baltimore City Schools: Mergenthaler (Mervo), Edmonson-Westside, Carver and Green Street Academy. These schools provide students who are studying trades in construction, computer-aided design, engineering and automotive technology with opportunities to gain hands-on exposure to careers in their trades.  Students participate in field trips to BGE facilities during the school year to meet with engineers and field workers to gain knowledge about life skills and career opportunities. Students also participate in BGE internships and CAST test preparation during the summer months to ensure their understanding extends beyond the classroom.