FLUVANNA COUNTY, Va. — Nearly 80 young women from across Virginia had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and explore numerous careers in the energy industry during the 4th annual Girl Power Camp.

The day-long camp was hosted by the Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives.

Marissa Perry was one of dozens of employees at Thursday’s camp to demonstrate their work in the industry. The Hanover County native has worked at Dominion Energy as a ground agent for two years.

“I wanted to get into some sort of business,” Perry said. “So I kind of ended up falling into assembly line work.”

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Casey Hollins of the Rappahannock Electric Cooperative said this unique camp allows students to learn and try out the different aspects of working at each station.

From bucket trucks to smurf poles to fiber splicing and even virtual reality, students were able to experience a variety of aspects of the industry.

“For years, the industry has been perceived as male-dominated, but we want to open people’s eyes and minds to the opportunities that exist for everyone,” Hollins said.

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High school senior Gabby Dunaway was one of the students who got to try out Perry’s work.

“I think it’s really cool to see how many opportunities we have for the future,” Dunaway said.

So, whether it’s cutting microfibers to ensure we have internet or climbing over 50 feet to make sure we’re connected, the camp showed the girls that there are many paths to career in power.

“It makes me feel good to inspire someone to do something I love,” Perry said. “I mean, I wouldn’t trade it for anything, to be honest with you.”

Find more information about careers available in the electrical industry at America’s Electric Cooperative. website.

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