Spire launches a talent pipeline program that it plans to model in several states
In a model program designed to support a stronger talent pipeline for the natural gas industry, Spire is partnering with Missouri technical schools to launch two-year cooperative educational programs to provide students the skills they need to learn technical aspects of the natural gas field while they complete an HVAC associate degree.
The program, which aligns with state workforce and education initiatives to fill high-demanding jobs, is a model that Spire is planning to launch with institutions in its other service areas and states.
Six Ranken Technical College students recently signed onto Spire’s Cooperative Education Program during a sign-on event held at the school.
“We’re very fortunate to have a relationship with Ranken, one of the best technical colleges in Missouri,” said Suzanne Sitherwood, Spire president and CEO. “Making it into this co-op program was not a small feat for these students. It is quite an accomplishment. Co-ops provide great opportunities if you work well, study well and participate well at work.”
To qualify for the program, students must maintain good grades, go through an interview process and demonstrate a solid work ethic. This is the second group of students accepted into the program.
Inclusion is a core value at Spire, and an eye toward a diverse program was top of mind in its current class of students, the utility said. Clara Kelly and TeOnna Blackmon, the first two women to participate in the program, said the training gives them the knowledge and confidence they need to pursue a career in this promising field.
Sitherwood said her own co-op experience at a natural gas company in Atlanta paved the way for where she is today. “Without that opportunity, I don’t know if I would have taken the journey to become CEO of Spire,” she said.