Industry partnerships and a built-in summer internship connect classroom learning with careers in the energy sector

PRATT, Kan. — Pratt Community College continues to strengthen education-to-industry connections through its Electrical Powerline Technology (EPT) program, which prepares students for careers in the energy sector with hands-on training and real-world work experience.

The College’s efforts reflect a broader commitment to listening to employers, building community partnerships, and preparing students for meaningful careers that contribute to the economic vitality of the Pratt region and beyond. PCC’s EPT program provides hands-on technical training for careers in the electrical powerline industry and related fields, including utilities, power generation, energy storage, and industrial operations. Internships are part of the program itself: students spend nine months on campus, then complete on-the-job training through a summer internship semester, gaining experience with employers across these areas.

Recently, PCC President Dr. Carl B. Smalls and members of the College’s team met with representatives of an energy technology company that partners with the EPT program. The meeting gave Dr. Smalls an opportunity to learn more about the company’s work, hear directly about its workforce needs, and reaffirm the College’s commitment to the partnership.

For PCC, relationships like this are part of an intentional effort to understand the skills, training, and talent employers need. By bringing educators and employers together, the College aims to maintain clear pathways from classroom learning to career opportunities while supporting the workforce needs of the region.  “Community and workforce engagement are important parts of our responsibility as a community college,” said Dr. Carl B. Smalls, President of Pratt Community College. “We want to listen to our employers, understand where the opportunities are emerging, and work together to prepare our students for success. When education and industry collaborate, we can create meaningful opportunities for students while helping meet the workforce needs that support our region’s future.”

Internship experiences allow students to apply their technical knowledge in a professional setting, gain exposure to industry practices, and explore career pathways connected to their education. For employers, partnerships with PCC create opportunities to engage with emerging talent and help inform the preparation of the future workforce.

PCC will continue working with employers, community leaders, and regional partners to identify opportunities that connect students with careers and help businesses access the skilled talent they need.

Students interested in the Electrical Powerline Technology program can contact Jeff Hoffman at jeffh@prattcc.edu or visit prattcc.edu for more information.