On Wednesday, the DCSEU Workforce Development Program celebrated its Summer/Fall 2018 cohort of externs with a commencement ceremony. The event, which was held at the DCSEU office, honored their six months of dedication to sustainable energy and efficiency projects in the District at places such as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), DC Water and Howard University.
DCSEU Managing Director Ted Trabue kicked off the event followed by congratulatory remarks from Dr. Taresa Lawrence, deputy director of energy for the District’s Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). Lawrence appeared on behalf of DOEE Director Tommy Wells.
The externs were also honored by members of DC City Council. Ward 4 City Councilmember Brandon Todd offered a commemorative letter to constituent and graduating extern Kiersten Washle, and Ward 5 City Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie sent a member of his staff to mark the occasion.
The six externs each gave a presentation on their accomplishments, what they learned, and how they have grown throughout the program.
“My dream job is to become a professional engineer and to start my own engineering firm,” said Madison Johnson, who served in Howard University’s Office of Sustainability during his externship. “The Workforce Development Program has given me tools such as resume building and access to the LEED Green Associate Exam to help make myself more appealable to prospective employers.”
The DCSEU Workforce Development program gives people seeking professional growth and a steady career path a new opportunity to join the green energy workforce with career coaching, training and access to certifications. Historically, more than 85% of externs have gone on to full-time positions after completing the program.
The program is overseen by Sheryl Dove, strategy and workforce development manager, as well as Gleniss Wade, workforce development program manager.
Read more about externs' experience in their own words below.