Bright Future U Prepares Youth for Career in Energy
People’s Gas and Chicago Public Schools have joined forces to create the Bright Futures U program, an initiative that helps high school students gain hands-on training and classroom experience in the energy industry. The program offers a clear path from education to employment — students who complete the program are guaranteed job opportunities at Peoples Gas upon graduation. This year, 76 high school juniors began the first phase of the program at the company’s training facility, while 17 seniors entered the final phase, preparing to transition directly into full-time positions as project workers once they graduate.
Leaders from Peoples Gas and Local 18007 Gas Workers Union emphasize that the program not only builds individual career potential but also strengthens the city’s workforce and energy infrastructure. The initiative has already proven successful, with previous graduates advancing within the company and several new hires joining this summer. As part of the broader Peoples Gas Energy Career Academy, Bright Futures U reflects a long-term commitment to workforce development, community investment and economic opportunity for young Chicagoans.
