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JAM | Feb 3, 2025

New batch of JPS interns ready to explore work opportunities in 2025

/ Our Today

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Newly onboarded JPS interns pause for the lens. The group consists of final year tertiary students and recent graduates who will be working in the engineering, information technology, safety and other areas of the company. (Photo: Contributed)

The JPS Internship Programme is well underway in the new year, with 15 tertiary students selected to get one year of hands-on experience across the light and power company.

The annual programme sees an intake of final-year students and recent graduates with engineering and computing backgrounds, being exposed to a transformative journey, preparing them for the demands of the 21st-century job market.

While JPS has provided engineering internships over many years, the new revamped programme, has been implemented since 2016. The one-year programme initially catered solely to engineering students, however, it has expanded to include computing students, reflecting JPS’ commitment to innovation and diversification.

This year’s cohort also has the highest number of women participants to date – comprising eight of the 15 participants.

“This year’s cohort is the most diverse we have had, with women making up over half of the group,” said Tania McDonald-Tomlinson, director of people operations and special projects at JPS.

“Our goal is to provide participants with the technical expertise, leadership skills, and industry insights necessary to drive innovation in energy,” she added.

A unique feature of the internship programme is the opportunity for participants to rotate through various departments across the organisation. This rotation gives them a chance to gain vast experience and exposure to different facets of the energy company, from power generation to renewable energy initiatives, to grid performance using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

“You are part of a family, and no one walks this journey alone,” said Ricardo Case, director of engineering services, speaking at the kick-off ceremony. “Our job is to pour our experience, love and passion into you, helping you fulfil your purpose. Together, we are building Jamaica and the Caribbean, creating something the world will look to with admiration.”

JPS director of engineering Rick Case addresses newly minted interns. Engineering interns will be rotated through different areas of the organisation during their year of internship. (Photo: Contributed)

Karl Cowan, manager of the system control department, who also addressed the interns, encouraged them to embrace a comprehensive approach to learning. “It’s not just about technical skills—learn the soft skills, ask questions, challenge the status quo, and have fun,” he said. “At JPS, teamwork is everything—Together Each Achieves More. You are the bright minds who will lead us into the renewable energy future.”

Blaine Jarrett, senior vice president of energy delivery, reflected on his own career journey, which began as an intern at JPS.

“This programme was my foundation, and it helped me grow into a holistic professional,” he said. “Make use of the opportunity,” he emphasised, “apply yourself, be curious, go the extra mile and learn from those around you,” he advised the youngsters.

Former intern, now distribution engineer, Keszia Bennett, had high praises for the programme.

A section of the audience of new JPS interns, listens attentively to advice as they embark on a new phase of their career development. (Photo: Contributed)

“This programme gave me a wealth of knowledge, introduced me to an incredible work culture, and helped me build lasting relationships. My colleagues became family,” she shared.

This internship programme is but one of a number of work opportunities for tertiary students,
hosted by the electricity company each year.

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