In early March, STP’s Women in Nuclear (WIN) chapter hosted a POWERSET symposium in recognition of National Women’s History Month.

More than 100 students and faculty attended from local area high schools. The trip to STP was an opportunity to not only learn about potential careers in the nuclear industry but to receive information regarding education and skills needed in the workplace.

Members of STP’s WIN chapter – one of the nation’s largest — serve as mentors to many high school students from across the area. The POWERSET acronym stands for Powerful Opportunities for Women Eager and Ready for Science, Engineering and Technology. The POWERSET program serves to stimulate interest in science and math courses while keeping students engaged in engineering and technology.

George Harrison, STP Chief Financial Officer (CFO), was guest speaker at the event. Harrison shared his professional journey from working as a ranch hand at his father’s ranch to becoming CFO at STP. He also talked about the importance of education and getting a degree.

“Education and hard work is growth and a preparation for life,” said Harrison. “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest towards your careers. Follow your passion and never give up on what you love to do.”

Other WIN members including Dennis Koehl, President and CEO, Cathy Gann, Employee Concerns Manager and WIN President, and Mary Anne Billings, Risk Management Consulting Engineer, also spoke at the symposium.

POWERSET began in 2008 at Palacios High School with just 20 students. The program has since grown to include eight additional schools in the surrounding area and more than 300 students. STP is a founding member of POWERSET and, as the largest employer in Matagorda County, works to attract new talent from the local communities.