More than 100 Birmingham-area high school students got a firsthand look at the life of an engineer this week at Alabama Power Corporate Headquarters. The company hosted its annual E-day, or Engineering Day, Thursday, April 4. 

Students participated in interactive workshops in different engineering disciplines and toured work areas including the company’s Storm Center. Many of the activities focused on renewable energy and smart grid technology. 

Among the high schools that participated were: Carver, Gardendale, Homewood, Oak Mountain, Parker, Pelham, Ramsay, Shelby County School of Technology, Sylacauga, Vestavia Hills and Wenonah. 

Alabama Power senior engineer Derrick Cherry has coordinated       E-day activities for the past two years. Volunteers from the company served as student escorts, teachers and activity leads. 

“The event gives students a tremendous opportunity to get practical knowledge about the engineering profession,” said Cherry. “Our engineers make sure the students get sound information about the field to help them make good career decisions, but they also go a step further by giving the students hands-on learning tools.” 

To learn more about Alabama Power’s education, volunteer and community initiatives, please visit www.alabamapower.com.