Through a community-led initiative organized by the Litchfield Kiwanis Club and FACS teacher Laura Hulterstrum, two local students recently spent the day job shadowing at Meeker Energy gaining firsthand insight into the people, technology, and teamwork that power their community.
The experience is part of a broader effort to connect students with real-world career opportunities close to home, helping them explore potential paths and build relationships with local employers. By stepping into the day-to-day operations of a cooperative utility, students gain a deeper understanding of how essential services are delivered and how they might contribute in the future.
The program pairs students with local businesses based on their interests. This year, Meeker Energy was proud to welcome Patrick Coblentz-Wies and Sam Grabow, both 8th graders at Litchfield Middle School.
During their visit, the students spent time in both the IT and line departments, exploring the wide range of roles that keep the cooperative running. They were curious, engaged, and eager to see how their talents might one day support Meeker Energy and their community’s energy needs.
Patrick’s Experience in IT and Network Operations
Patrick was introduced to Meeker Energy through a school project that involved applying for a job shadowing opportunity. What attracted him to the energy industry was its capacity to impact people’s lives on a daily basis. Patrick had the chance to observe a variety of roles, including those in the Network Operations Center (NOC) and with the internal IT team. He even got a firsthand look at some of the equipment used to ensure smooth communication and operations within the company.
One of Patrick’s standout moments was his tour of the server room. “Being around so much technology was both fascinating and overwhelming. I was shown how everything works and the importance of having backups in case something fails,” Patrick shared. His experience with the company’s teamwork and friendly culture left a lasting impression. “The people at Meeker Energy were welcoming and made me feel like part of the team,” Patrick reflected.
After his job shadowing experience, Patrick is now considering a career in cybersecurity, a field that has always piqued his interest. “The more I learned, the more I realized how much I could do in this industry. I’d love to return one day and work in cybersecurity,” he said.
Sam’s Hands-On Field Experience
For Sam, the job shadow experience was more physically immersive. As the son of one of Meeker Energy’s employees, he had a unique opportunity to work alongside his father, John Grabow, as well as Wyatt Shea and other team members in the field. Sam spent much of his time assisting with the installation of primary wire and helping to set up transformers and meters, a real-world introduction to the essential work that keeps communities powered.
Sam was particularly impressed by the practical skills he gained. “I learned a lot about how transformers work and got to help with the installation process,” Sam noted. His enthusiasm was clear as he shared the excitement of setting up transformers and working alongside people who took pride in their work. “The job is challenging, but it’s rewarding. I like the idea of helping people and being part of something bigger,” he added.
Sam’s dad, John Grabow, said programs like this are an important part of Meeker Energy’s values. “It’s a way for students to see and experience what we do here. All the guys took time to explain each step and show Sam how the process works. It shows faith in our kids’ futures and helps them see what’s possible.”
Sam’s experience has influenced his future career aspirations, as he now dreams of following in his father’s footsteps to become a foreman in the energy industry. “I think I’d like to be in line for a role like that. I love the idea of working outside and helping people get power back when they need it,” Sam said.
Meeker Energy’s Commitment to Workforce Development
Meeker Energy’s job shadow program is more than just an opportunity for students to observe; it’s an investment in the future of the energy industry. By partnering with local schools and organizations like the Kiwanis Club, Meeker Energy is working to ensure the next generation is well-prepared for a range of careers within the Cooperative. The company’s dedication to youth outreach and workforce development plays an essential role in helping students discover their passions while equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed. Through these programs, Meeker Energy provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the industry, from the technical aspects of network operations to the on-the-ground work that powers communities. As Patrick and Sam’s experiences show, these opportunities can inspire students to consider careers they may not have previously imagined, and in doing so, help shape the workforce of tomorrow.