June 4, 2026
A new video released by Graves County Economic Development (GCED) and the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center (ATC) highlights the real-life benefits the Power in Partnership program is delivering for local vocational students.
The video features recent Graves County High School graduate Luke Grantham who landed an internship with Universal Compressor Solutions (UCS) after participating in a Power in Partnership field trip. Grantham had taken both welding and machine tool courses at the ATC, but the chance to be on the factory floor and interact with UCS staff was a game-changer.
“It was just mind blowing,” said Grantham. “The parts they had out for us to look at and seeing how they did everything, it was just amazing to me, I loved it.”
Just a few weeks later, Grantham was working for UCS as an intern and turning his classroom lessons into critical first steps toward a lifelong career.
“Power in Partnership definitely opened my eyes,” said Grantham. “They do a great job of showing students that you can stay local and still have good opportunities.”
Josh Heisner, ATC Principal, said Power in Partnership is making a difference. “We are linking ATC students with business and industry partners who convey not just how to prepare for a job, but also how to succeed once you land that job,” said Heisner. “Power in Partnership is creating opportunities, helping students build a network, and offering a hand-up to a brighter future. It’s great to have so many local businesses that invest in the school and our students.”
“This is just one of many stories that represent the value Power in Partnership is delivering for students and their families and for our local industry, which needs a pipeline of well-trained, committed employees to compete on the world stage,” said GCED President Jason Lemle. “We are proud to partner with the Area Technology Center to help make students’ career dreams become reality. But we couldn’t do that without our outstanding business and industry partners like UCS. We are grateful to them for their support of this program and the future of our community.”
Power in Partnership is a student-focused program fostered by the ATC and GCED that brings a wide range of professionals to the ATC classrooms to share their expertise and offer career advice and also arranges for students to visit area businesses to learn more about career opportunities.
To be part of the effort to build a well-prepared workforce to meet the needs of your business through Power in Partnership contact GCED at 270.247.0626.
The Power in Partnership video joins GCED’s online video library. The video was produced by Austin Lamb Productions. Special thanks to Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center.
Dale Usher and Brian Webb from Usher, Inc. visited ATC electricity students through Power in Partnership, sharing career advice and highlighting major upcoming electrical projects — including two uranium enrichment facilities — that could bring significant local job opportunities.
