“The rigors of working as an apprentice lineman require a strong work ethic, physical strength, and technical aptitude, therefore, not everyone is cut out for it,” said Keller Kissam, President of Dominion Energy South Carolina. “For those who rise to meet the challenge, it can be a rewarding, well-paying career right out of high school to help provide a 24/7 critical service to our communities – without taking on college tuition debt. We are so proud that Dominion Energy’s partnership with the Chamber Foundation has brought such an excellent young man like Justin McElveen into our workforce and creates an avenue to hire other qualified students who may not be aware of the career opportunities for them at Dominion Energy.”

July’s event was the culmination of Dominion Energy’s and South Carolina Chamber Foundation’s new partnership that creates and expands pathways to recruit, employ, and retain underrepresented individuals in the Palmetto State. The partnership was born from Dominion Energy’s support of the South Carolina Chamber Foundation’s new Center for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The center is focused on increasing inclusive employment pathways, which aligns with Dominion Energy’s goals to enhance their own workforce diversity and to ensure young adults are aware of the well-paying, secure jobs available to them without a college degree.

McElveen, an 18-year-old from Columbia, is the first to secure a full-time position in Dominion Energy’s apprentice lineman program through the partnership. Justin graduated from Spring Valley in May. His transition into Dominion Energy’s full-time apprenticeship program straight out of high school is a major accomplishment illustrating the opportunities that are available.

He was among more than 50 students who attended Dominion Energy’s Skilled Trades Day in March. The event, hosted in partnership with the SC Chamber Foundation, supported the company’s commitment to developing a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce. Spring Valley principal Jeff Temoney attended the event with McElveen and witnessed first-hand the opportunities available for his students. “Dominion Energy and the South Carolina Chamber Foundation are looking to bridge the gaps in the South Carolina workforce, and Spring Valley is eager to be an asset,” said Spring Valley High Principal Jeff Temoney. “Justin’s success is a prime example of what can be accomplished when we work together to create a workforce that reflects our vibrant and diverse communities better.”