On Tuesday, July 14, students participating in OUC’s Pre-Apprenticeship Training visited the Osceola Generation Station and St. Cloud Facility for Career Exploration Day.
Hosted in partnership with Osceola County Public Schools, Turner Construction Company and the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), the event provides local high school juniors, seniors and recent graduates with hands-on training and exposure to careers in the skilled trades.
“This is our first time bringing this program to Osceola County, and I’m proud of what we’re accomplishing,” said Alandus Sims, Project Manager. “We’re providing students with the training they need and creating pathways to good‑paying careers while helping build OUC’s future workforce.”
Career Exploration Day began at the Osceola Generation Station, where students split into two groups for tours led by Keith Wasielewski, Gas Generation Supervisor, and Lyanne De Francisco, Administrative Assistant II. Throughout the tour students visited the control room, turbine generator and switchyard, learning and seeing how electricity is generated to homes and business.
Keith Wasielewski, Gas Generation Supervisor, shows students how gas is used to generate electricity.
Following the power plant tour, students traveled to OUC’s St. Cloud Facility, where Amber Salcedo, Facilities Supervisor, led a tour of the site highlighting the warehouse, fleet operations and cistern. Ric Thurston, Fleet Manager, introduced students to career opportunities within Fleet Services and shared how the department supports OUC’s daily operations.
Amber Salcedo, Facilities Supervisor, leads students on a tour of the St. Cloud Facility.
The event concluded with an Electric Distribution presentation led by Samual Allen, Line Technician I, and Benjamin Sablain, Line Technician II, at the line technician dock. Students learned about careers as line technicians, substation technicians and other utility professionals while gaining insight into the skills, training and career pathways available within the industry.
Samual Allen, Line Technician I, and Benjamin Sablain, Line Technician II, demonstrate line technician equipment to students.
Career Exploration Day is one of the many ways OUC invests in future generations by connecting students with meaningful career opportunities and supporting workforce development through strong community partnerships.
