Six First Coast High School students learned about skills required to be a JEA lineworker. The students are among 35 college and high school student interns working as JEA interns this summer, The internship opportunity allows the First Coast High upcoming senior students to learn about JEA operations up close after three years of studying electric systems in the classroom. Since their freshman year, the students have participated in JEA Academy at First Coast High School. After completing four years of courses in May 2026, the students will be prepared to vie for five JEA apprenticeship programs. For high school students looking into alternative paths to four-year colleges, JEA’s state-certified training program prepares them for rewarding opportunities at JEA or elsewhere.
The students are getting a full picture of what’s required to create and distribute electricity to JEA customers. They have spent time in different craft areas: overhead and underground network, substation and meters. First Coast High School student Tianna Reed was grateful for the opportunity, “So far, I’m really interested in the technician field, the metering technicians. I found that its interesting to go up to the commercial buildings and check the meters.” JEA Chief of Staff Kurt Wilson also chimed in, “It’s important to capture their interest and talent and imagination early on, guide them through their high school years because those are the times they’re most at risk. When they do graduate. They will be ready if they want to have a rewarding career with us.” Shown is intern Tianna Reed digging a hole to secure proper lines are open. For more student intern info visit www.jea.com.