1st STEP Student

The Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL), in conjunction with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, AFL-CIO, Local Union 352 has up to 11 openings available in 1st STEP (School to Training & Employment Program), located in Lansing, MI.

About the role

This is a paid work experience program designed for high school seniors to gain skilled trade and professional learning opportunities with one of Mid-Michigan’s premier employers.

Requirements

• Must be a high school senior at the start of the program, January 2027.
• Must be available to work 3 hours each weekday, January–May 2027.
• Must be drug free (pre-employment drug testing is mandatory).
• Must pass a multi-stage screening process.
• Must have good oral and written communication skills.
• Must be at least 17 years old by January 1, 2027.
• Minimum GPA of 2.0.
• Must have reliable transportation to and from work.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

• Frequently required to sit, talk, hear and listen, walk and climb stairs.
• Ability to traverse uneven terrain.
• Ability to effectively communicate in writing and orally.
• Ability to enter and retrieve data from computerized, typed and written sources.
• Normal office environment with some field work and standing.
• May be required to travel between field locations.
• Exposure to all outdoor temperature and humidity ranges; occasional exposure to dust and noise.

Opportunities Available

• Safety Technician Helper
• Power Plant Helper
• AMI Helper
• Supply Chain Helper
• PED Helper
• Maintenance Mechanic Helper
• Water Production Helper
• Customer Service Helper
• IT Helper

Why You Should Apply

• $2,000 scholarship to a college or university in the state of Michigan for completing the program.
• Paid work experience.
• Skilled trade/professional learning opportunity.
• Valuable experience and contacts with one of Mid-Michigan’s premier employers.
• Opportunity to learn valuable workplace safety principles under direct mentorship.

About BWL

The Board of Water & Light serves Lansing, Michigan, and surrounding areas with electricity, water, and steam. The BWL operates under a city charter that vests it with full and exclusive management of water, steam, and electric services for the city. The American Public Power Association has honored the Lansing Board of Water & Light as one of the country’s best publicly-owned utilities.

The Location

Lansing lies at the heart of the Great Lakes State and offers all the beauty and splendor of the four seasons. It is a hub for outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, snowmobiling, golf, and hunting. Mid-Michigan is also within a couple hours of premier skiing and one of the most beautiful freshwater lakeshores in the world on Lake Michigan. Lansing is minutes away from Michigan State University and the University of Michigan and boasts miles of walking, running, and biking trails, Potter Park Zoo, professional sports, the arts, and fine dining.