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Stephens reminded the graduates that they have chosen a career path filled with opportunity and purpose.
“Skilled tradespeople are some of the smartest, hardest-working people you’ll ever meet,” she shared. “The reality is that skilled trades offer some of the most rewarding, respected, and financially successful careers available today. Congratulations to you for choosing this profession.”
With a touch of humor, she highlighted the unique dedication required of lineworkers:
“Most of us spend our lives checking weather apps and saying, ‘Looks like a storm is coming. Better stay inside.’ Linemen see the same forecast and start packing a duffel bag.”
Stephens also reminded the graduates that much of the work performed by line workers often goes unnoticed and that is a sign of success.
“If someone wakes up, turns on the lights, adjusts the thermostat, makes coffee, charges their phone, starts their business, and never once thinks about their electric or natural gas provider, that’s a perfect day,” she said. “The best line workers aren’t looking for applause.”
She emphasized the growing need for skilled professionals in the energy industry, noting that experienced employees are retiring, energy demand continues to grow, and communities continue to expand.
“The need for skilled workers has never been greater,” Stephens said. “The reason this program matters so much is because we are facing a workforce shortage.”
As Cohort 31 begins the next chapter of its journey, Stephens left the graduates with three simple but powerful reminders: Never stop learning. Respect safety. And remember that character matters.
Power line work, she said, is essential to the economy, to communities, and to quality of life. “While most careers spend their lives chasing the spotlight, you’ve chosen a profession that quietly keeps the spotlight on for everyone else.”
And with one final dose of humor, Stephens wished the graduates well:
“May your coffee be strong, your safety record be stronger, and your outage calls wait until after 9 a.m.”
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