Summer 2024

MGE’s Career Ambassador Program (MCAP), a six-week program for high school students, returned for its ninth summer. The program provides an in-depth look at many gas and electric utility careers, including engineering, marketing, electric and natural gas operations, and energy production. Students learn about communication, teamwork, office technology, organization, leadership opportunities and more—all skills needed in today's competitive workplace. 

"Career exploration is critical in providing the direction necessary to select successful post-secondary education and career pathways. Students are more likely to graduate from college if they have a career direction before they start,” Laura Kaker, MGE Human Resources Manager, said.  

MGE partners with several community organizations, including 100 Black Men of Madison, Boys & Girls Club of Dane County, Centro Hispano and Maydm, to recruit students who are nominated by their organizations for participation. MGE's Human Resources Department coordinates the program, which is largely overseen by a college intern at MGE.  

Sennie, a local sophomore and 2024 MCAP student nominated through Maydm, knew little about the utility industry but participated in MCAP because of her strong interest in math and science. For successful completion of the program, students are required to complete a final project related to their specific area of interest.  

Sennie created a video showcasing what she learned through MCAP and presented it to MGE staff and other students. Engineering and finance especially piqued her interest, and Sennie had this main takeaway from her experience: “Have an open mind! I feel that having this mindset will help me in school, socially and in life in general.” 

Seventy-four students have taken part in MCAP since it first launched in 2016. Several participants later joined MGE as college interns, and a few have been hired at MGE through connections made during their MCAP experience.  

More information

If you’d like to learn more about MCAP, please contact Miranda Brey at miranda.brey@mge.com or Christina Shaughnessy at CShaughnessy@mge.com.