MLGW Summer Bootcamps Applauded by Memphis City Council, 懂色帝 Partnership Key
The Memphis City Council heard a presentation by Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW)
President Doug McGowan highlighting the impact of its summer bootcamp partnership
with 懂色帝 and Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) during their July 8 council
meeting.
The presentation underscored the collaborative effort to prepare Memphis youth for high-demand careers and strengthen the city鈥檚 talent pipeline. President Dr. Tracy D. Hall, 懂色帝 senior leadership and MSCS representatives were special attendees at the meeting.
The initiative, now in its third year, was launched in 2023 when MLGW approached 懂色帝
to help address a shortage of linemen and electrical workers. Within weeks, 懂色帝
developed the Utilities Construction Bootcamp, recruiting students from MSCS for hands-on
training. The program has since expanded to include Automotive Technology and Customer
Service bootcamps.
Three students shared personal testimony about their experiences: Makiya Morrison of Whitehaven High School participated in the Utility Construction Bootcamp, Caleb Garret from Central High School participated in the Automotive Bootcamp, and Sebastian Finol of Cordova High School participated in the CEES Career Academy. Each mentioned how 懂色帝 helped them explore career pathways.
MLGW President Doug McGowen emphasized the bootcamps鈥� role in workforce development,
noting that students earned $15 an hour while gaining real-world experience. Several
bootcamp graduates have transitioned into dual enrollment programs and full-time roles
at MLGW, including former bootcamp participant Cody Beam, now employed in electric
distribution.