The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, in partnership with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 18, hosted the 3rd annual Women’s Career and Wellness Expo Saturday, which welcomed more than 2,500 attendees. Job seekers, LADWP staff, students, families, and members of the local community gathered at the utility’s Truesdale Training Center to learn about LADWP jobs and benefits and enjoy family-friendly activities. The event aims to promote career opportunities in the utility industry, especially for women, and the many employee initiatives and programs that help support work-life balance for women in the workplace.
“Today’s Expo is more than a career fair — it’s a celebration of what’s possible when we invest in women and open doors to careers that power our city,” said Councilmember Imelda Padilla, City Council District 6. “I’m proud to see this event hosted right here in Sun Valley, where our community can see firsthand the career paths and leadership opportunities that exist at LADWP. Thank you to LADWP and IBEW Local 18 for your commitment to equity and for creating a space where women and girls are supported to pursue careers where they can lead, build, and shape the future of Los Angeles.”
LADWP’s Truesdale Training Center, a training facility for the Department’s Power System employees, served as the perfect place to host the many live demonstrations and hands-on activities that happened at the Expo. Attendees were able to get an up-close look at heavy equipment, machinery, and even a helicopter, all of which support the wide variety of important work LADWP completes every day. LADWP employees from numerous classifications were in attendance to offer information and inspiration to anyone interested in a civil service career.
Board of Water and Power Commissioners President Richard Katz stated, “I was excited to see that the community came out in full force today to learn more about LADWP. It’s events like these that inspire the next generation to pursue careers in water and power, and consider LADWP as their future employer.”
At 45 career booths, staff from dozens of LADWP divisions shared details about their roles and information about the hiring process. Careers represented ranged from professional fields like information technology and customer service, to skilled craft positions that are less traditional for women, like Electric Station Operator, Steam Plant Assistant, and Electrical Mechanic.
LADWP Chief Executive Officer and Chief Engineer Janisse Quiñones commented, “I am so happy to be here today to see our talented team from across every part of our organization educating community members about the amazing career opportunities LADWP offers. This event showcases everything that comes with a career at LADWP, including fulfilling work and excellent employee benefits. It also raises awareness about our many opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and skilled craft careers for women. As a woman in STEM, I understand the unique challenges we face and the importance of having female representation in these career fields.”
In the wellness area, Expo-goers learned about the benefits that come with working with LADWP, including health plans, employee assistance programs, and professional resource groups. Kids attending with their parents joined in the fun with multiple children’s activities hosted by City of Los Angeles Youth Development, Discovery Zone, DIY Girls, and Wildwoods, and everyone enjoyed a dance party with the event’s DJs.
LADWP hosted the Women’s Career and Wellness Expo in partnership with IBEW Local 18. For more information, visit the event webpage at www.ladwp.com/womens-expo.
