The SWEPCO Foundation has provided a $4,500 contribution to the Louisiana Preparatory Program (LaPREP) at LSU Shreveport, continuing decades of support for the academic enrichment program aimed at preparing middle and high school students for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Now in its 32nd year, LaPREP welcomed 51 students this summer, including 28 first-time participants and 23 returning for their second year. The program offers rigorous instruction in logic, problem solving, algebra, engineering, technical writing, and programming, as well as field trip visits that introduce students to real-world STEM environments.

As part of this summer’s activities, students visited SWEPCO’s Distribution Training Center (DTC) on June 6, where they engaged with employees and explored career pathways in the utility industry. The visit included a tour of the DTC pole yard and indoor training facility, where students observed demonstrations and learned about the physical and technical demands of line work as well as an informative conversation about all the ways SWEPCO contributes to STEM. From the engineers that are employed to the math that goes into calculating voltage and keep employees safe there is a broad discussion of ways STEM is a focus of the Utility industry.

“These students are sharp, motivated, and eager to learn,” said Brad Brown, member of SWEPCO’s technical training staff. “Giving them a close-up look at the kind of careers available in our industry helps plant the seed for what’s possible. I wouldn’t be surprised to see some of them back here one day as interns or employees.”

Students also learned about other career opportunities within AEP, SWEPCO’s parent company, from engineering and operations to public policy and customer service. Instructors highlighted how utility professionals respond to storm restoration events and the coordination needed to maintain reliable service across the region.

“The SWEPCO Foundation’s support enables us to provide talented middle scholars with an enriching educational summer program,” said Irina Ilioaea, LaPREP Program Director. “SWEPCO’s contribution and long-standing commitment helps shape the next generation of STEM leaders and has helped hundreds of students in our area take meaningful steps toward college and beyond.”

In addition to classroom instruction, students in the seven-week program also participated in educational field trips to organizations including LSU Health Shreveport, Barksdale Air Force and Global Power Museum, Sci-Port Discovery Center, and Centenary College of Louisiana, where they gained exposure to medical research, interactive science, and social services. We also take our participants to fun places such as Gators and Friends, Hot Wheels Skating Rink, Shreveport Municipal Auditorium, and Cinemark.  

“Helping students see a future for themselves in STEM fields is one of the most important ways we can strengthen our community,” said Michael Corbin, SWEPCO External Affairs Manager. “Programs like LaPREP provide both access and inspiration, and we’re proud to play a role in that journey.”

Since its launch, LaPREP has served more than 970 students from the Shreveport-Bossier area, many of whom have gone on to pursue college degrees and careers in science and engineering.

For more information about LaPREP, visit https://www.lsus.edu/laprep.