The recent partnership between the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and Georgia Power has been a major win for engaging with historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across Georgia. The collaboration began in 2020 when Georgia Power became the official energy partner for the SIAC. This year, they leveraged the partnership to focus on students, training, and internship opportunities.
Over the past semester, more than twenty campus activations at these schools helped connect students directly with the company, showcasing a range of programs and career options. The standout event was the first-ever Georgia Power HBCU Summit, which brought together over thirty students from SIAC schools. This summit gave them a chance to explore career opportunities within the Southern Company network, bridging the gap between their education and professional paths. Also at the summit, Morehouse College was presented the 2024 Citizenship Award for their positive community impact.
The results speak for themselves: twenty-five internships were extended to students from SIAC schools, with about twenty being accepted. These new hires are now participating in mentorship programs with the company’s employee resource groups, which are designed to support their career growth. The students are gaining valuable experience across various sectors, and diving into fields like Power Generation, Power Delivery, Renewables & Resiliency, and Corporate Communications, getting hands-on experience that’s crucial for their career advancement.
This collaboration has not only expanded outreach but also underscored a commitment to developing future professionals. By investing in these students, the partnership is enriching the workforce with fresh talent and new perspectives. Exciting things are on the horizon as this collaboration continues to grow and make a bigger impact.
