Powerful Careers Essay Contest

The need for skilled workers in the energy field has never been greater, and electric cooperatives hope that post-elementary school students will emphasize that as part of a new essay contest.

The Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives is sponsoring a “Powerful Careers” contest for schoolchildren of electric cooperative members and the 1.3 million readers of Cooperative Living magazine.

Essays will be accepted starting March 1 through Sept. 1 through an online submission form at vmdaec.com/powerfulcareers. No mail-ins will be accepted.

Essays should focus on one career opportunity in the energy field. Possibilities include lineworkers, dispatchers, graphic designers, business specialists, IT professionals and CEOs. Submissions should explain what the job is, why it matters and how it relates to the energy business.

“The diversity of job roles is one of the strengths of the electric cooperative network,” said Steven Johnson, editor of Cooperative Living. “Through this contest, we hope students will take a close look at the value of careers in the energy field.”

The Contest is open to any student in grades 7-12 whose parents are members of Powell Valley Electric Cooperative.  Grades 7-9 should submit essays of 500 to 750 words. Grades 10-12 should submit essays of 800-1,000 words. First prize in each age category is a $100 gift card. Second prize is a $50 gift card. Third prize is a $25 gift card. The first-place entries will be printed in the November-December 2021 issue of Cooperative Living.

Please review all rules and requirements at vmdaec.com/powerfulcareers before entering.