Congratulations to Power Utility Program 2020 Graduates

In 2020, 17 students graduated from the Electric Power Utility Technology (EPUT) program ready to pursue their goals in the energy industry after two years of study and real-world job experience in the field. The students earned both an associate of science degree in Electric Technology and a certificate in Natural Gas Technology.

The EPUT program is a partnership of Bunker Hill Community College, Eversource, UWUA Local 369 and USW Local 12004 USW.

As their studies came to a close and they prepared for the real world—and a potential career at Eversource or other utility company—we spoke with three graduates from the Class of 2020 who shared their most memorable EPUT experiences and goals for the future.

Marion Jones, technical training supervisor and head of the EPUT program, can be credited with helping to make the student experience a positive one. To maintain the program during the pandemic, Jones, with support from other members of the Technical Training team, transitioned to online classes with virtual labs, which challenged students and allowed them to grow in new ways.

“Overseeing the EPUT program affords me the opportunity to focus my efforts on helping others become the best version of themselves,” says Jones. “Through EPUT, we are developing the workforce of the future, challenging students to take pride in an unwavering work ethic while always striving for a standard of excellence both personally and professionally.”

The EPUT program is designed to prepare students for a variety of employment opportunities in electric and gas related positions. Most graduates go on to have successful careers at Eversource; the program boasts a 98% job placement success rate. “Students thrive in this program because of the strong connection between academics and career,” said Dean of Professional Studies at BHCC Austin Gilliland. “We’re proud to partner with Eversource to support students in a program that furthers their education and leads to a fulfilling career.”

To learn more, visit bhcc.edu/eput

Brad Cronin

Hometown: Belmont, New Hampshire

Dream job: Eversource Journeyman Lineworker

Memorable EPUT experience: Participating in the 12-week co-op program alongside Eversource employees was an invaluable experience and gave me the opportunity to have hands-on training in the field. I now feel more prepared and excited for my career and am proud to do my part to help keep the lights on for our customers. The EPUT program gave me the confidence I needed and taught me to never give up on myself.

Mia Dottin

Hometown: Cambridge, Mass.

Dream job: Position in Eversource Gas Services

Memorable EPUT experience: I had a hard time finding my place in EPUT until we had our first natural gas lab. After learning how to mold and fit pipe with help from employees in Southborough, I finally saw something that I was truly interested in and motivated me to continue in the program. I’m extremely grateful for all the support I received during my time in the EPUT program. Having Eversource employees and other industry leaders believe in me helped me believe in myself.

Luis Martinez

Hometown: Boston, Mass.

Dream Job: Eversource Underground Lineworker

Memorable EPUT Experience: I’m fortunate to have had many unforgettable experiences during my time in the EPUT program. Outside of my studies and lab work, I had the opportunity to serve as a STEM tutor at the Boston Teachers Union Pilot School in Jamaica Plain. I am the first in my family to graduate college and giving back to others is extremely rewarding. I’m also grateful for the many unique experiences I had at Eversource, like participating in events with members of the Diversity and Inclusion Council and Business Resource Group. I look forward to starting my career at a company that values the differences and unique perspectives that we all have to offer.