Students 'Get Into Energy' with Lawson State and Spire, Inc. Alabama
Lawson State Community College leaders recently joined officials from Spire to congratulate several students who completed "Get Into Energy," a unique partnership designed to prepare them for work in the energy industry.
"This is just one example of how we collaborate to ensure that our workforce remains viable and that Spire and companies like them get the most qualified employees," Lawson State President Dr. Cynthia Anthony said at the school's Jan. 24 Natural Gas Worker Completion Ceremony.
The program---the first of its kind in Alabama---launched in in the fall of 2024 with training in several areas, including:
The broad skillset is helpful for those who want entry-level jobs with Spire and its affiliates with a starting pay of $22.33 per hour or $46,446 per year. Plus, understanding how these areas come together to benefit the customer is critically important.
"This is a first," said Rusty Hughes, manager of field training for Spire Inc. Alabama. "In addition to the curriculum that we helped develop, one of the things students were taught at the forefront of every class was safety. Safety is one of the most important imperatives in our company to make sure we all stay safe, and that our customers stay safe."
Spire Inc. Alabama President Joe Hampton offered practical insight on why programs like "Get Into Energy" matter.
"Who enjoyed the cold weather outside recently?" he asked with a laugh, referencing January's snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. "When you got into your houses, though, it was nice and warm, and your furnaces were working...that's what this is about. We can't do this without the people who do the work."
A 'foot in the door'
Mr. Hampton, a 30-year employee, also shared his journey and mentioned the career success of other Spire employees who supported the program and attended the ceremony.
"People come to industries like Spire because it's not just a job. It's a career," Mr. Hampton said. "This is step one in the door. Don't think small about this. Don't think this is just a fly-by-night opportunity, because there are other young men and women who would like to be in the seat you're in," he told the students.
"Take full advantage of the opportunity, connect with people, put your best foot forward," he added, "and don't underestimate that this time wasn't ordained by the man above. This is your opportunity to take full advantage of what your future and the rest of your life can be."
For more information about the Natural Gas Worker Training program, contact Joshua Caton at (205) 266-7202 or workforce@lawsonstate.edu.
