U.S. Virgin Islands (July 11, 2025) — The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) proudly announces the successful completion of a specialized training session in plant operations for its scholarship
recipients, new hires, and recently promoted employees. The sessions, held both on St. Thomas and St. Croix, provided participants with an in-depth overview of Combustion Turbines and Balance of Plant (BOP) operations — critical components in
the Authority’s generation system.
Cyril Andrew (centered, wearing a white hard hat), an Electrical Engineer III at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority, leads training with Alva C. McFarlane scholarship recipients, new WAPA hires, and recently promoted employees at the Randolph Harley Power Plant on St. Thomas.
Training sessions took place on June 25–27 at the Randolph Harley Power Plant on St. Thomas and June 2–4 at the Richmond Power Plant on St. Croix.
Leading the sessions was Cyril Andrew, Electrical Engineer III, a member of the St. Croix plant operations team who also began his career as an intern at the Authority. Mr. Andrew shared both technical knowledge and personal experience with the participants,
having once been in their very position.
“I remember sitting in their shoes as an intern, eager to learn and understand the complexities of power generation,” said Mr. Andrew. “To now have the opportunity to help train and guide the next generation of talent at WAPA is a full-circle
moment for me. It’s a reminder of how much growth is possible within this organization, and I’m proud to contribute to that journey for others.”
Mr. Andrew was supported by his colleagues, Shamade Burke, Manager of Operations, Alfredo Josiah Jr., Electronic Technician II, and Vicente Donastorg, Instrument Engineer I, during the sessions, each playing an important role in delivering a comprehensive,
hands-on learning experience. The Authority’s Safety Team was also on-site, ensuring all participants were properly outfitted with personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhered to all safety protocols throughout the training.
This initiative reflects WAPA’s continued dedication to workforce development, internal promotions, and supporting scholarship recipients in building meaningful careers within the utility industry.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.
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