As part of our continued commitment to the next generation, OUC recently partnered with the Orlando Science Center to bring their STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) summer camp attendees to our Pershing Operations Center for the second year in a row. On June 27, 25 12- to 14-year-old students enjoyed an educational day learning all about survival science.

Students learned from many industry professionals about hurricane preparation, tips to remain safe in the aftermath of a storm and how OUC restores service.

After a climbing gear and safety equipment demonstration, students were each surprised with their very own OUC hard hat, and even got to ride in a bucket truck.

Next on the agenda was learning about how safe, reliable drinking water gets from OUC to your faucet. Water technicians demonstrated how to flow an OUC water hydrant. Students were shocked to see just how fast water flows from a hydrant and how it was safe to drink!

The day concluded with the students learning about the relationship between trees and utility companies. Students learned how maintaining trees increases reliability and decreases the potential for damage from severe weather.

A full day of fun and learning left an impression on the students, teaching them that electricity isn’t as simple as turning on a switch at your house.

For 60 years, the Orlando Science Center has encouraged learning and exploration in the field of science through fun and educational activities. OUC also partners with the Orlando Science Center on Project AWESOME (Alternative Water & Energy Supply, Observation, Methods & Education), the award-winning program that delivers interactive water workshops to fifth-grade classrooms across OUC’s service area.