ATC’s Electrical Students Learn from Mayfield Electric’s Linemen

Linemen Geoffrey Beck and Rex Coleman from Mayfield Electric & Water Systems (MEWS) visited upper-level electrical students at the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center (ATC) on August 29, as part of the Power in Partnership program, a joint initiative between the ATC and Graves County Economic Development (GCED) that brings professionals to the ATC classrooms to share expertise and experience with students and offer career advice.

Beck and Coleman brought a bucket truck to the school and gave the students a chance to go “hands on” with the specialized equipment. They talked about the kinds of work they do and the vital importance of learning and following safety protocols. They also encouraged students who are interested in electrical careers to get involved in the trade as early as possible.

“MEWS is proud to support ATC’s commitment to preparing the next generation of skilled workers for meaningful, hands-on careers in our community,” said Clint Woodward, MEWS Electrical Operations Manager. “As someone who personally attended ATC, I can confidently say it offers an outstanding path for students interested in trade work. It gave me the foundation I needed to build a rewarding career, and it continues to do the same for countless others in our area.”

Woodward noted that he was impressed with the ATC students. “The talent, motivation, and potential we saw are exactly what our industry and our community needs.”

“Technical education is a vital part of building a strong, resilient workforce,” Woodward added. “Programs like these not only open doors for students, but also help ensure that local businesses and utilities like ours have access to well trained, dedicated professionals for years to come.”

“We realize not everyone can bring a bucket truck for demonstrations, but Geoffrey Beck and Rex Coleman did an awesome job of utilizing the truck and their equipment to keep students engaged,” said ATC Principal Josh Heisner. “We're lucky to have industry partners like Mayfield Electric and Water that are willing to take time to invest in our students, preach workplace safety, and walk them through paths to get working in their trades as quickly as possible.”

“Vocational training drives economic development by creating a skilled workforce, filling labor shortages, and boosting productivity,” said GCED President Jason Lemle. “Power in Partnership gives our students industry-specific, practical skills and helps them connect with local business and industry leaders. That ultimately increases their employability and leads to them becoming part of our local workforce, making Graves County more attractive for future business investment.”

The ATC is located on the Mayfield High School campus and serves students from Mayfield Independent Schools, Graves County High School and Carlisle County High School.

About Graves County Economic Development

Graves County Economic Development began in 1981, becoming the driving force behind expansion and development opportunities in the community. It continues to foster strong relationships with existing businesses and attracts new industry to grow in Graves County. There are 44 industrial businesses in Graves County that employ 2,300 people in the community.