DEC Shapes Future Leaders

As Delaware Electric Cooperative reflects on 87 years of serving members, we’re reminded that we were founded with future generations in mind. As an electric cooperative, DEC follows the Seven Cooperative Principles. One of those principles, “Education, Training and Information,” recognizes the value of education in creating a better tomorrow.  
 

For decades, our Co-op has been committed to providing educational presentations at Co-op meetings, local schools and community events. We’re focused on keeping our youngest members safe, and DEC has partnered with the National Energy Foundation since 2020 to provide free in-school and virtual ‘Energy Safe Kids’ programs for fourth grade students at local schools. 
 

Each year, DEC sponsors three delegates from Kent and Sussex County to attend the National Rural Electric Cooperative’s Youth Tour in Washington D.C. It's an opportunity for students to gain insights into our government and the energy industry, as well as developing their leadership skills with fellow delegates across the country.
 

When the time comes to start thinking about college, DEC is there for our members as well. We partner with the Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives (VMDAEC) to award scholarships to high school seniors planning to continue their education after high school. Each year, the Education Scholarship Foundation awards $1,000 scholarships. We’re proud to invest in the future of these students as they achieve their goals in higher education.
 

Similarly, we’re also investing in our future workforce through internships. DEC’s summer internship program offers college students an immersive professional experience where they learn about the utility industry, participate in hands-on projects and receive guidance and mentoring to help identify their passions and future goals. While post-internship employment isn't guaranteed, many former interns have become full-time members of our Co-op family. These internships offer students a chance to gain real-world experience and take their education to the next level.
 

We take pride in our role as a supporter of local education and are committed to making a difference in the communities we power. We look forward to powering upcoming generations, whose future is bright!