Spire welcomes six Ranken Tech, Jefferson College students to cooperative education program

The official state apprenticeship prepares students for careers in the energy industry

ST. LOUIS (February 27, 2025) — Spire is helping prepare the next generation for careers in the energy industry by welcoming six students from Ranken Technical College and Jefferson College to the Spire Cooperative Education Program. The two-year educational program, which is recognized as an official state apprenticeship, will prepare students for careers in the natural gas industry, providing them hands-on opportunities with highly skilled technicians in the field.

During a Feb. 26 ceremony at Spire’s offices at 700 Market, the students joined the sixth cohort of the co-op program at a “Signing Day” with their families and representatives from their schools and Spire in the crowd.

“We are proud to partner with Ranken Tech and Jefferson College for this unique program. The Spire Cooperative Education Program is an example of how innovative partnerships prepare the next generation for rewarding careers in the energy sector,” said Scott Doyle, Spire chief operating officer. “These six students should feel proud. Being accepted into the co-op program is an accomplishment on its own, and these next two years will be filled with hands-on learning and growth.”

Jefferson College students Chris Breen, Madelyn Adams and Talon Swing were welcomed into the program, as well as Ranken Technical College students India Summers, Jack Pena and Leo Jacobs III.

"At Ranken Technical College, we equip students with the education and hands-on training they need to thrive in the workforce," said Don Pohl, Ranken Technical College president. 

"Our partnership with Spire is a perfect example of our mission in action. By integrating real-world experience with classroom learning, students not only develop technical skills but also gain a strong work ethic and professional engagement that will set them apart in their careers. The success of this program is evident in the confidence and readiness these students bring to the industry, ensuring a seamless transition from education to employment."

“Jefferson College is extremely proud to be a partner with the Spire Cooperative Education Program and to provide this opportunity for students in HVAC-related fields,” said Dr. Dena McCaffrey, Jefferson College president. “Partnerships like this are key to creating these critical job training opportunities and Spire has been a leader in these efforts that support aspiring students in the trade.”

The program was created in 2020 to help meet the demand for uniquely skilled workers in the natural gas industry. Since its launch, Spire has hired more than a dozen co-op students for full-time positions as service technicians.