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Duke Energy Florida and Engineers Week

Duke Energy Florida recently marked Engineers Week, a time set aside to highlight the critical engineering professions that power modern society. This year, the focus was on the essential work performed by power grid dispatchers—individuals who act as the 'eyes in the sky' for the company’s expansive energy network, which services over 2 million customers spread across a diverse 35-county area.

During this week, celebrated from February 16 to February 22, Duke Energy emphasized the importance of training the next generation of dispatchers. Melissa Seixas, President of Duke Energy Florida, expressed the depth of responsibility carried by these professionals, noting their role in maintaining both operational safety and customer service reliability. "These dispatchers make high-stakes decisions every single day that impact the lives of skilling workers out in the field, as well as our customers who rely on consistent energy provision," she stated.

The Dispatcher’s Role

Being a power grid dispatcher is no simple task. These professionals undergo a rigorous training regimen that can last up to two years, combining classroom instruction with practical on-the-job experience. This extensive training equips dispatchers with vital problem-solving skills essential for managing the complexities of the electrical grid. Many come to the role with backgrounds in electrical engineering or related fields, understanding the intricacies of energy distribution.

Power grid dispatchers work round-the-clock in rotating shifts at the company’s Distribution Control Center, ensuring that operations continue smoothly at all times. They are responsible for coordinating with field crews during both routine upgrades and emergencies, such as outages caused by severe weather. By employing advanced computer systems and following strict safety protocols, they monitor multiple incoming data streams to optimize service delivery and response times.

A Commitment to Continuous Education

The training of dispatchers is critical not only for the efficiency of day-to-day operations but also for the long-term stability of the energy supply. Duke Energy Florida recognizes that a consistent influx of qualified dispatchers will enable them to maintain their standards of customer service while adapting to evolving technological demands. The company encourages interested candidates to explore open positions through their careers page, affirming their commitment to nurturing talent in the field.

Duke Energy Florida has a rich heritage in energy supply, managing a capacity of 12,300 megawatts that collectively supports a vast residential and industrial customer base. As part of the greater Duke Energy enterprise, a Fortune 150 entity, they play a significant role in the southeastern energy landscape, generating a total capacity of 54,800 megawatts.

Embracing a Cleaner Energy Future

Looking ahead, Duke Energy is focused on transitioning towards a smarter energy framework while ensuring reliability and affordability for customers. They are investing heavily in modernizing the electrical grid, incorporating cleaner energy options such as solar, wind, and natural gas, alongside traditional energy sources. This transformation not only enhances service reliability but aligns with their broader sustainability goals as they strive for environmental stewardship.

As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for skilled dispatchers remains paramount. Duke Energy Florida is committed to bolstering their workforce, not only to meet current demands but also to pave the way for future advancements in energy distribution. This Engineers Week serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions made by engineers and technical professionals who work tirelessly to keep the power flowing.

To learn more about the opportunities available at Duke Energy Florida, visit duke-energy.com/Our-Company/Careers.