UI, SCG Recruit Summer Trade Interns for Program’s Fourth Year
The trade internship program offers students hands-on training and experience in the electric and natural gas industries
ORANGE, Conn. — March 13, 2026 — Today, United Illuminating (UI) and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG), subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc., have launched recruitment efforts for their 2026 Trade Internship Programs. In partnership with the Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) Local 470-1, United Steelworkers (USW) Local 12000 and 12000-1 American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) Central Labor Council (CLC), the 10-week program offers hands-on training for high school and certificate program students interested in electric and natural gas careers. Students will gain valuable skills and experience, preparing them for future career opportunities in these critical industries.
“We look forward to welcoming another class of impressive, hardworking students to our trade internship program this year,” said Frank Reynolds, President & CEO of UI and SCG. “This initiative not only exposes students to the world of electric and natural gas careers, it is also part of a broader effort to foster workforce development and ensure a sustainable, skilled workforce to meet growing energy demands.”
“Many young people don’t realize how many rewarding career paths exist in the electric industry,” said Moses Rams, President of UWUA Local 470-1 and Chief Line Crew Leader at UI. “As we enter our fourth year of the Trade Internship Program for UI, we are excited to engage with students who have a passion for the electric industry. By partnering with local technical high schools, we are able to attract students with interest and curiosity in these career opportunities. By working side-by-side with experienced professionals, students gain exposure, guidance, and a clearer sense of the possibilities ahead of them.”
The summer of 2026 marks the fourth year of the Trade Internship Program for UI and UWUA Local 470-1 and the second year for SCG and USW Local 12000 and 12000-1 AFL-CIO CLC. The 10-week program will begin at the end of June and offers a comprehensive, hands-on training experience both in the classroom and in the field. UI union scholars will receive instruction in pole-climbing, operating a bucket truck, and safely working with tools and equipment. SCG union scholars will learn about gas system design, installation, repairs, and safety inspections, gaining experience in both construction work and service calls.
“The demand for skilled labor in the electric and natural gas industries continues to grow, and programs like this are vital to preparing the next generation of workers," said Christine Pariseau, Senior Director of Electric Operations at UI. “We aim to bring awareness to all of the work that is involved behind the scenes at a utility company, and the critical roles that provide essential service to the community. This internship program helps build up the communities we serve and gives students real-world experience and the confidence to pursue long-term careers in the trades.”
“We are excited to welcome students into SCG’s second year of the Trade Internship Program, which provides students with valuable experience and a clear career path in the natural gas industry,” said Marcelo Assis, President of USW Local 12000 & 12000-1 AFL-CIO-CLC and Service-Mechanic A at SCG’s headquarters in Milford. “One of the most meaningful parts of this program is the opportunity to mentor students and show them what a future in the utility industry can look like. In these 10 weeks, we are committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment that equips students with the practical skills needed for success.”
UI and SCG are now accepting applications for the 2026 program until mid-April. After a review and interview process, final selections will be made by the end of April.
About SCG: The Southern Connecticut Gas Company (SCG) is a subsidiary of Avangrid, Inc. Established in 1847, SCG operates approximately 2,500 miles of natural gas distribution pipelines, serving approximately 206,000 customers in the greater New Haven and Bridgeport areas of Connecticut. For more information, visit www.soconngas.com.
About UI: The United Illuminating Company (UI) is a subsidiary of Avangrid, Inc. Established in 1899, UI operates approximately 3,600 miles of electric distribution lines and 138 miles of transmission lines. It serves approximately 341,000 customers in the greater New Haven and Bridgeport areas of Connecticut. UI received the Edison Electric Institute’s Emergency Recovery Award in 2019 and 2021. For more information, visit www.uinet.com.
About Avangrid: Avangrid, Inc. is a leading energy company in the United States working to meet the growing demand for energy for homes and businesses across the nation through service, innovation, and continued investments by expanding grid infrastructure and energy generation projects. Avangrid has offices in Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, Maine, and Oregon, including operations in 25 states with approximately $50 billion in assets, and has two primary lines of business: networks and power. Through its networks business, Avangrid owns and operates seven electric and natural gas utilities, serving more than 3.4 million customers in New York and New England. Through its power generation business, Avangrid operates more than 80 energy generation facilities across the United States, and the company has a capacity of over 11 GW capable of powering over 3.1 million customers. Avangrid employs approximately 8,500 people and has been recognized by JUST Capital as one of the JUST 100 companies – a ranking of America’s best corporate citizens – in 2025 for the fifth consecutive year. The company was named among the World’s Most Ethical Companies in 2025 for the seventh consecutive year by the Ethisphere Institute. Avangrid is a member of the group of companies controlled by Iberdrola, S.A. For more information, visit www.avangrid.com.
Media Contact:
Angela Baccaro