Hinds students pursuing trades join ‘Classroom to Commission’ initiative

RAYMOND—Thirty Hinds Community College students were the first to be a part of the Mississippi Public Service Commission’s (PSC) “Classroom to Commission” initiative, designed to bridge the gap between the PSC and educational institutions.

The students – representing Hinds’ electrical line worker, electro-mechanical, electrical technology, plumbing technology and mechatronics technology programs – heard from commissioners and utility company representatives after the PSC’s Oct. 16 meeting. The program provides students with access to industry leaders, resources and pathways to success.

“Investing in our young people is investing in the future of Mississippi,” PSC Central District Commissioner De’Keither Stamps said. “Classroom to Commission will open doors for students to explore careers in fields that power our communities – from utilities and infrastructure to public policy and economic development.”

Stamps told students, who sat in on the PSC meeting, that they had just witnessed the approval of $6 billion in economic projects that will create thousands of jobs in the state.

Hinds President Dr. Stephen Vacik said those well-paying jobs include careers the students hope to join after their training at Hinds. Dr. Vacik said current students have an opportunity, maybe like no other time in the history of the state, to pursue in-demand, skilled professions.

“Now we’re trying to figure out how we’re going to expand these programs” to meet industry workforce needs, Dr. Vacik said. “I’m grateful for the fact that you have these opportunities.”

Representatives from Entergy and Mississippi Power spoke to students about job opportunities with the utilities and how to find those openings and apply.

“This program is about showing students they can be part of the solutions shaping Mississippi’s future,” Stamps said. “We want them to see there’s a place for their talent, their idea and their leadership within public service.”