Jorge Lopez has served in the Marine Corps and performed line work, but he’s just getting started.
Lopez is taking the next step with his employer, EnergyUnited, to build his career through participation in the federal GI Bill program. He is the first at the co-op to do so, with another veteran-turned-apprentice lineworker potentially signing on in the future.
“The GI Bill offers me the opportunity to continue advancing my education and technical skills as I transition into civilian life. I hope to gain deeper technical expertise, strengthen my leadership abilities and continue growing professionally so I can better serve EnergyUnited members,” he said.
The Statesville, North Carolina-based co-op sees its participation as a way to build its workforce while honoring those who have served in the military, an area of emphasis for electric cooperatives across the nation.
Through approved GI Bill apprenticeship programs, veterans can earn excellent wages, industry-recognized credentials and financial support that helps ease the transition from military service to civilian careers.
The GI Bill apprenticeship model benefits both veterans and employers. Veterans gain hands-on experience, lower training costs and a clear path to stable careers. At the same time, employers benefit by attracting disciplined, reliable talent while reducing overall training expenses.
EnergyUnited has three designated School Certifying Officials within its Human Resources team, all of whom are authorized signatories for the GI Bill program. SCOs are responsible for certifying veteran enrollment and training so participants can receive their GI Bill benefits.
“Participating in the GI Bill program allows EnergyUnited to invest in skilled, motivated individuals while honoring those who have served our country,” said Thomas Golden, CEO of EnergyUnited. “This program strengthens our workforce, supports long-term career development and creates meaningful opportunities for veterans.”
It’s a big plus for Lopez, who was born and raised in the Dominican Republic before moving to New York City in 2014. He joined the Marine Corps in June 2017, serving seven years on active duty and another year in the reserves. He spent time in Okinawa, Japan, with Combat Logistics Regiment 35 before transferring to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.
His final unit was Combat Logistics Battalion 6 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He later chose a career in line work, saying it gave him the same sense of purpose he found in the Marines.
“After spending six months working for a contractor in Virginia, I wanted a local opportunity that would allow me to be more present for my family,” he said. “That search led me to EnergyUnited, where I applied for a position last year. I’m grateful to be doing work I love while being able to support and stay close to my family.”
Steven Johnson is a contributing writer for NRECA.