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SECO Supports STEM-Focused Fifth Annual Youth Energy Academy

On June 20 and 21, SECO Energy along with Duke Energy and Ocala Electric Utilities partnered to bring the Fifth Annual Youth Energy Academy to Marion County teens. Industry experts created an environment for students to explore and discover careers in the energy industry. The event was held at the College of Central Florida’s Hampton Center and Ocala Electric Services.

 

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, more than 40 percent of the current workforce in the electric and natural gas utilities will retire within five years. The average age of energy industry employees is over 50. Marion County Schools, the CEP, SECO Energy, Ocala Electric Utilities, Duke Energy and Clay Electric realizing the need for future energy industry employees assisted in forming the Power Generation Academy (PGA) at Dunnellon High School. PGA Instructor Don Slocum dropped by the Youth Energy Academy to provide the students’ enrollment and program information.

 

Employees from SECO, Duke and Ocala Electric volunteered countless hours teaching, presenting and sharing their knowledge and experience with this year’s Youth Energy Academy students. Representatives from Siemens, College of Central Florida, Boys & Girls Club, CLM CareerSource, Lockheed Martin, Cheney Brothers and the three electric utility providers worked together to make this event an education success for attendees.

 

At this year’s two-day event, students gained essential knowledge related to the array of jobs, careers and occupational requirements in the energy field. Student activities covered a variety of subjects such as how electricity travels from the generation plant to homes demonstrated by Duke Energy’s Engineer Derick Farfan, and a live demonstration by Duke Energy’s Ronnie Bailey of restoring power during an outage. Students learned the difference between soft and hard skills via a presentation from Heaven Colon, CLM CareerSource, and delved into high-skill, high-wage careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) by taking a closer look at robotics. Students also met Forest High School EMIT program students – EMIT stands for Engineering and Manufacturing Institute of Technology.

 

The students were mesmerized by the Tesla Model 3 electric vehicle (EV) driven to the Academy by a Southern Alliance of Clean Energy (SACE) representative. A surprise visit from NFL Steelers draft pick Ulysees Gilbert III, his brother Uriah Gilbert who plays for Bethune Cookman University, and a previous youth energy academy student, Maurice Gilbert, who is currently a student at Florida A&M University provided the teens with substantial life coaching skills and drove home the importance of time management skills. The Gilberts reminded the participants that attending the Academy is a valuable investment in themselves.

 

On day two, attendees toured the City of Ocala electric utility operation center and water treatment plant. Utility Director Mike Poucher demonstrated the effects of texting while driving through a presentation of car accidents that involve utility poles and how to exit a vehicle safely after an accident. Participants also rode in bucket trucks and learned about Ocala’s fiber-optic internet system. Finally, participants learned about drones and how they are used in the energy industry.

 

As a supporter of STEM-based projects, SECO was an event sponsor and also provided funding for transportation expenses to the Boys and Girls Club that bussed the students for their exploration tours. SECO Energy CEO Jim Duncan stated, “The Youth Academy aligns with two key cooperative principles – Education, Training and Information and Concern for Community. The energy field offers a multitude of diverse careers just waiting for talented candidates to apply. Participating in youth education programs gives SECO a hand in crafting its future workforce and offers local, talented youngsters employment opportunities close to home and family.”

 

The Florida Chapter of the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) incorporated a Youth Energy Academy model focused on, but not limited to, minority students in St. Petersburg, Jacksonville, Orlando, and Ocala. “Each year, we gain the interest of our emerging workforce by proving new career paths and sessions to let students know what the energy industry offers and how they can create career paths of their own. In 2012, we established Youth Energy Academy programs in the Northeast and Central regions of the AABE Florida Chapter with the intent of beginning programs in the Southeast and Northwest regions in 2020. We won’t be able to solve the energy industry workforce shortage overnight, but since inception, more than 1,500 students have been exposed to the energy industry through the Youth Energy Academy,” stated Kathy Judkins, AABE Florida Chapter President. The AABE Florida Chapter is led by members from seven Florida energy providers, as well as several entrepreneurs and business partners.

 

Learn more about SECO Energy and its Concern for Community online. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

STEM Focus at Ocala’s Third Annual Youth Energy Academy

On June 8 and 9, local energy experts are teaming up to introduce high school students to the many careers in the electric utility field. SECO Energy, Duke Energy and Ocala Electric Utilities partnered with CareerSource CLM, College of Central Florida and Lockheed Martin to bring the Third Annual Youth Energy Academy to life for sixty students in Marion County.

 

The Youth Energy Academy is an interactive workshop aimed to spark the students interest in traveling an academic path toward a career in the energy industry. During the two-day event, students explore high-skill, high-wage careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The high-schoolers learn how electricity is delivered to homes and businesses, participate in hands-on demonstrations and discover the soft skills needed for a successful career.

 

Several years ago, the Florida Chapter of the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) incorporated a Youth Energy Academy model focused on, but not limited to, minority students in St. Petersburg, Orlando and Ocala. The AABE goal is to proactively gain the interest of an emerging workforce by educating young people about opportunities in the energy arena.

 

STEM Focus at Ocala’s 3rd Annual Youth Energy Academy

 

Kathy Judkins, SECO Energy’s Deputy Director of Civic, Charitable and Government Affairs stated, “SECO Energy, Duke Energy and Ocala Electric Utilities have formed a strong partnership in the quest to develop a future talent pipeline of local students who show an interest in the energy industry. At this year’s Academy, students are gaining essential knowledge related to the array of jobs, careers and occupational requirements in energy today.”

 

Jim Duncan, CEO stated, “The Youth Academy aligns with two key cooperative principles, Education, Training and Information and also Concern for Community. The energy field has a bundle of diverse careers just waiting for talented candidates to apply. Participating in youth education programs gives SECO a hand in crafting its future workforce and gives local, talented youngsters employment opportunities close to home and family.”

 

Learn more about SECO Energy and its Concern for Community online. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO News, January 2017

SECO News, January 2017 - Toys for Tots and United Way

 

Duncan’s Digest: Toys for Tots and United Way

 

The Christmas spirit was upon us all as we participated in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. SECO’s employees helped me load hundreds of toys, donated by employees and members, for local children.

 

Toys for Tots collects new, unwrapped toys and distributes as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community. As a Marine myself before my hair turned gray, I know thatToys forTots is a special program for children in need. Hundreds of children will wake up to Christmas presents under the tree, thanks to the generosity of our employees and members.

 

SECO News, January 2017 - Toys for Tots and United Way

 

During SECO’s 2017 United Way campaign, employees opened their checkbooks and donated generously. SECO employees pledged $50,171 for United Way’s campaign for local communities.

 

United Way improves the quality of life for millions of people. I am grateful to work with employees who have the power and goodwill to improve the communities we serve. SECO employees are a generous bunch of folks, and their efforts are applauded.

 

From my family to yours, I wish you a healthy, Happy New Year!

 

SECO News, January 2017 - New Year, New Efficiency Tool

 

New Year, New Efficiency Tool

 

Happy New Year! What are your resolutions this year? Start off on the right foot with SECO’s new online Energy Estimator tool.

 

The estimator helps members understand the amount and cost of the energy that appliances, lighting, and other electronics use in their home. It calculates your monthly refrigeration costs, the price for each load of laundry, the annual amount of energy your oven uses and more. Submit your results and within minutes you will receive an email comparing your usage to the average Central Florida household and tips to save energy and money.

 

SECO has three great prizes up for grabs for members who explore the Energy Estimator and increase their energy efficiency IQ. After completing the Energy Estimator and emailing your results, your name will be entered into a random drawing to win a $300 bill credit, a package of energy efficiency tools that includes a $100 Lowe’s gift card, and a programmable Wi-Fi thermostat. Winners will be notified via email on February 16.

 

Make a resolution to reduce your energy usage and lower your energy bill. Here’s to an Energy Efficient New Year!

 

SECO News, January 2017 - Protection Begins at the Meter

 

Protection Begins at the Meter

 

Today’s appliances are sensitive to power surges caused by lightning, accidents, animals and more. Surges can cause catastrophic damage or degrade appliance circuitry over time.

 

Protection begins at the meter. SECO’s meter base surge arrester reduces most surges to a safe level before they enter your home. The arrestor helps protect large motor appliances like the air conditioner, washer and dryer, refrigerator, stove and dishwasher.

 

Beat the upcoming storm season rush and subscribe to SECO’s meter-based surge protection by February 15 for a chance to win a $100 Lowe’s gift card. All SECO members currently enrolled in SECO’s surge protection are also eligible to win.

 

Enroll online or call us at (800) 732-6141. A random winner will be chosen February 15.

 

SECO News, January 2017 - Does a Fireplace Save Energy?

 

Does a Fireplace Save Energy?

 

Wood burning fireplaces provide a soothing ambience and warmth, but can actually increase your energy usage. Fireplaces pull oxygen and heat from other areas within the home. Approximately 30% of heat goes up the chimney, creating a drop in temperature, prompting your central heating unit to cycle more frequently.

 

Installing glass doors or a fireback can increase your fireplace’s efficiency. Glass doors act as a barrier to reduce the amount of indoor air escaping through the chimney. In the summer, glass doors help prevent warm air from entering into your home. Firebacks are decorative, cast iron plates that when placed at the back of the fireplace absorb heat and radiate it back into the room.

 

Although glass doors and firebacks may improve a fireplace’s efficiency, your best course of action is to use your fireplace when it’s just a little chilly and forgo operating your central heating unit during that time. Learn more about SECO’s products and services and energy savings online.

 

SECO News, January 2017 - SECO Scholars

 

SECO Scholars

 

For over 20 years, SECO Energy has awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships – launching young scholars on their path to a college education. Once again, SECO’s Board of Trustees has approved up to $36,000 in scholarships for twelve deserving high school seniors.

 

To be eligible, the student must:

  • Reside in a home served by SECO.
  • Graduate high school by the end of the current school year.
  • Provide proof of acceptance to an accredited college, university or vocational/technical school by the end of 2017.
  • Plan to be enrolled as a full-time college student.

 

Applications are available beginning January 4, at SECO’s five Member Service Centers in Lake, Sumter, Marion and Citrus counties, area high school guidance offices, at the SECO corporate offices in Sumterville and online.

 

To be considered, completed applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on March 31. Applications may be dropped off at any SECO Member Service Center or mailed to:

 

SECO Energy<br\>Attn: Youth Scholarship<br\>330 South U.S. Highway 301<br\>Sumterville,FL 33585-0301

 

Winners will be notified by phone or mail on or about April 28. Learn more about SECO’s scholarship program online or call (352) 569-9561.

 

Read the full January 2017 SECO News here.

 

Students Vie for $36,000 in SECO Scholarships

Annually, SECO Energy offers graduating high school seniors, who reside in its service area, the chance to compete for a $3,000 college scholarship.

 

Once again, SECO’s Board of Trustees has approved up to $36,000 in scholarships for twelve deserving high school seniors. For over 20 years, SECO Energy has awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO is proud to have a hand in launching hundreds of young scholars on their path to a college education.

 

To be eligible, student must:

 

  • Reside in a home served by SECO.
  • Graduate high school by the end of the current school year.
  • Provide proof of acceptance to an accredited college, university or vocational/technical school by the end of 2017.
  • Plan to be enrolled as a full-time college student.

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Concern for Community is a key cooperative principle and what better way to connect with the communities we serve than through scholarship awards. SECO helps young citizens embark on their college careers and lightens the financial load for their parents who are our members. I hope they bring their new-found knowledge and skills back to the area and seek future employment with SECO.”

 

Board of Trustees President Ray Vick, stated, “I have served on SECO’s Board of Trustees for over 35 years, and I am so happy to have a hand in continuing SECO’s scholarship program for the last 20 years. On behalf of the entire Board, we are very proud of SECO’s community outreach programs and its strong corporate citizenship ties to the communities it serves.”

 

An independent panel of educators from SECO’s service territory evaluates all applicants and selects each year’s winners. Scholarship selections are based on past and present achievements in school, community service, financial need and scholastic records.

 

The scholarship application period begins January 1, 2017. Applications will be available at SECO’s five Member Service Centers in Lake, Sumter, Marion and Citrus counties, area high school guidance offices, at the SECO corporate offices in Sumterville and online.

 

To be considered, completed applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on March 31, 2017. Applications can be dropped off at any SECO Member Service Center or mailed to:

 

SECO Energy

Attn: Youth Scholarship

330 South Hwy 301

Sumterville, FL  33585-0301

 

Winners will be notified by phone or mail on or about April 28, 2017. For additional questions, visit SECO’s scholarship page or call Eneida Robaina at (352) 569-9561.

 

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates. Visit SECO online to learn more about additional community outreach programs.

New Year, New Chance to Win with New ENERGY ESTIMATOR

SECO Energy introduces its newest online energy efficiency tool – just in time to make New Year’s resolutions that count. The Energy Estimator helps members resolve to save energy and lower their monthly energy bills in 2017.

 

The Energy Estimator is a usage calculator based on SECO’s current residential rate with the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) credit factored in. The Estimator helps members understand the amount of energy and costs that appliances, lighting, electronics, tools, etc. use in their home. The Estimator calculates your monthly refrigeration costs, the price for each load of laundry, the annual amount of energy your oven uses and more.

 

After submitting their data inputs to SECO, within minutes members will receive an email comparing their usage to the average Central Florida household, along with specific tips to save energy and money.

 

SECO has three great prizes up for grabs for members who explore the Energy Estimator and increase their energy efficiency IQ. After the member completes the Energy Estimator, his/her name will be entered into a random drawing to win a $300 bill credit, a large package of energy efficiency tool that includes a $100 Lowe’s gift card or a programmable Wi-Fi thermostat.

 

Winners will be notified via email on February 16, 2017. Members must explore the Energy Estimator and submit their data input by February 15 to be eligible to win. Make a resolution to reduce your energy usage and lower your energy bill this year. Take SECO’s Energy Estimator for a test drive.

 

For other chances to win electric bill credits and prizes, “like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter.

Trustees Attend Cooperative Solar Ribbon-Cutting

SECO Energy leaders and members of the Board of Trustees attended Seminole Electric’s ribbon-cutting event unveiling its Cooperative Solar Project. This Cooperative Solar Project is a 2.2-megawatt solar facility located in Hardee County, Florida.

 

The ceremony was presided over by Seminole Electric Cooperative’s CEO and General Manager, Lisa D. Johnson, and the President of its board of directors, Mr. William Hart. SECO Energy is a member-owner of Seminole Electric Cooperative as Seminole is SECO’s wholesale power provider.

 

During her remarks, Seminole CEO and General Manager Lisa Johnson highlighted the hard work of, and extensive collaboration between, personnel from Seminole, CoBank, Farm Credit Leasing and Radiance Solar, who together enable the construction of the renewable energy facility. Johnson noted, “Cooperative Solar, among other initiatives, has been one more way in which Seminole can secure our Members’ future while upholding cooperative values,” and continued, “we are careful about how we plan and use resources today, and we are working to embrace new resources for the future.”

 

The Trustees from SECO’s Board who attended the ribbon cutting are:

 

Robin Henion, Secretary/Treasurer District 7
Dillard Boyatt District 2
Richard Belles District 3
Richard Dennison District 4
Earl Muffett District 6
William James District 8

 

SECO Energy’s CEO, Jim Duncan stated, “Seminole’s Cooperative Solar Project is just that, a cooperative project between the nine-member owners of Seminole – one of which is SECO Energy. Cooperatives working together is a key Cooperative Principle. SECO is excited that Seminole is broadening its generation mix to include solar energy, allowing SECO to introduce its Solar Life program to members.”

 

SECO Energy is offering members exclusive access to its allocated share of the Seminole solar array – its program is called “Solar Life.” For a flat monthly fee of $32, members’ utility-supplied power cost will be offset by the monthly output of four panels of the 2.2-megawatt array.

 

With Solar Life, members can begin living a greener, hassle-free lifestyle that requires no upfront investment. Subscribe to Solar Life today.

 

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Trustee Completes Advanced Education Certificate

SECO Energy congratulates District Four Trustee, Richard Dennison of Ocala, for earning his Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Certificate.  Mr. Dennison became a SECO member in 1999 and began his Board service in 2015.

 

The CCD courses, provided by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), are designed to provide cooperative board members with knowledge on basic governance and the essential skills needed for a cooperative director.  SECO’s Board of Trustees use this knowledge to guide the fiduciary duties of the board and to serve as elected officials on behalf of SECO’s membership.

 

Ray Vick, Board of Trustees President, stated, “Education, Training and Information is a key cooperative principle and I applaud Mr. Dennison’s efforts to learn more about electric cooperative governance and cooperatives themselves.  As a Board member, Mr. Dennison provides oversight and sound financial judgment that is instrumental in SECO’s continuing success.  I am proud of the commitment Mr. Dennison has made to SECO’s Board of Trustees and to its members.”

 

Mr. Dennison enjoys his role as a SECO Energy Trustee, “It is a pleasure to serve as a SECO Trustee and be a voice and a representative for its members.  The energy industry is changing and by continuing my education, I can keep abreast of industry advancements and continue to work for our members.”

 

SECO’s Board of Trustees, CEO and senior leadership celebrated Mr. Dennison’s accomplishment during its November Board Meeting.

 

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Scammers Target Business Owners in The Villages

Just this week, several SECO members in The Villages recognized and reported scam phone calls.  SECO Energy is warning its members about scammers on the loose on the phone and in person in its service area.  Members have reported threatening phone calls from persons masquerading as SECO employees and employees of other utilities.  Small business owners in the area seem to be a prime target.

 

Owners receive a phone call, during business hours, from an individual claiming to be a representative of SECO.  The individual then threatens a service disconnection if the member does not pay immediately by credit card over the phone.  Scammers have even demanded owners meet with them at an off-site location and pay cash.

 

Please be advised: SECO will not call members – either residential or commercial – and demand credit card payment over the phone.  SECO uses an automated robo-call phone call system after hours to remind members of late payments.  A live person will never call and harass a SECO member for immediate payment.

 

Kathryn Gloria, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Energy Services, cautions members to be wary of payment demands.  “Scammers can be sophisticated thieves – they use threatening language to create a sense of urgency in their victims.  Scammers choose their victims carefully, they call businesses during busy times, looking for a distracted person who may fall for their scheme.”

 

Gloria adds, “Above all, be cautious about sharing personal information with callers or making utility payments over the phone.  If you receive a phone call and question its legitimacy, hang up immediately and call SECO.”

 

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Extends Gratitude to Hurricane Matthew Partners

In early October, Hurricane Matthew – an extremely powerful Category 3 hurricane – traveled north along Florida’s east coast bringing strong winds and rain gusts to SECO Energy’s service area. SECO enacted its emergency restoration plan to prepare for and recover from Hurricane Matthew successfully – due in part to the assistance from additional contractors and vendors. Their speedy response and willingness to help were truly awe-inspiring.

 

 

SECO proactively organized an army of additional line crews, tree contractors and hospitality-related vendors to aid in its restoration efforts before, during and after Hurricane Matthew. It took an immense collaborative effort to restore power to over 28,000 SECO members in under 36 hours. The average outage was only 129 minutes. SECO members would have been without power for much longer without the willingness and dedication of its employees, contractors and vendors.

 

SECO Energy CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Florida’s Governor, Rick Scott, was engaged and encouraging before, during and after the event. SECO appreciates the thousands of hard working utility workers who joined forces to restore power to millions of Floridians. Without question, SECO is Storm Ready and willing to lend a hand to assist our fellow cooperatives, as well as state municipal and investor-owned utilities during times of crisis.”

 

Members can “like” SECO Energy’s Facebook page and “follow” the company on Twitter for cooperative updates and the latest news releases.

SECO Continues Tracking Hurricane Matthew

SECO Energy continues to monitor and track Hurricane Matthew and its path to Florida. SECO is urging members to gather emergency supplies and be ready for service interruptions while the hurricane is passing through Florida and for a period of time thereafter.

 

As of Wednesday morning, Hurricane Matthew was downgraded to a Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds up to 125 mph. The storm is currently located about 35 miles north-northwest of the eastern tip of Cuba and is moving north at 8 mph. The storm is still predicted to turn northwest Wednesday night and is expected to remain a major hurricane as it moves over the Bahamas Wednesday and Thursday. By Thursday evening, Matthew will be near Florida’s east coast – with the center located 25 to 30 miles off the coast. The state will feel its effects through Friday night.

 

The forecast for Florida includes rain bands and strong, potentially damaging wind gusts – especially within rain bands and thunderstorms. Members in SECO’s service area can expect heavy rain, gusty winds that may strengthen to tropical-storm-force.

 

SECO asks members to keep a close watch on the hurricane’s impact on the area and be prepared for the possibility of prolonged service interruptions. Members should check emergency supplies, fill vehicles with gas, stock up on non-perishables and check property for objects that could cause damage during high winds.

 

Make sure cell phones and tablets are fully charged – include extra chargers in your emergency supplies. Bookmark SECO’s Storm Center on your smartphone or tablet. It’s simple to report an outage using the account last name and house number.

 

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO is dedicated to being our members’ first source for accurate storm information. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” the company on Twitter to stay updated about storms affecting our area.