High school students observe and learn as Kent Pope, Senior Plant Operator, explains operations in the control room at the Randolph Harley Power Plant.
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (February 24, 2026) – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) hosted eight high school students from Edith Williams Alternative Academy today at the Randolph Harley Power Plant on St. Thomas as part of an educational tour in collaboration with the Senator Lewis Youth Workforce Initiative.
The visit gave students a firsthand look at how WAPA powers and sustains the community while exposing them to potential careers in the water and energy sectors. Participants toured the control room, observed generators in operation, including the Wartsila units, and saw how plant operators monitor frequency levels to ensure the stability of power across the territory. Throughout the tour, students had the opportunity to speak with two senior plant operators and four engineers, asking questions and learning directly about careers in energy.
“Seeing students interact with our facilities and ask thoughtful questions is incredibly rewarding,” said WAPA Power Plant Superintendent Kevin Harrigan. “Tours like this give students a clear view of how our systems work and the wide range of careers that support them.”
“I would like to thank CEO Karl Knight and the entire WAPA team for welcoming our students into the plant,” said Senator Avery Lewis. “This is the first time in a long time that students have been given this kind of access, and it means so much to be included. As a former classroom teacher, I believe students must go beyond the classroom to truly understand how things work. The team was knowledgeable and welcoming, and the students from Edith Williams Alternative Academy asked thoughtful questions and left inspired — some even saying they want to work at WAPA. I look forward to making this a regular initiative as we continue creating opportunities that broaden our children’s horizons.”
By investing in youth exposure to energy and water careers, WAPA is helping to develop a future workforce equipped with the skills needed to operate, modernize, and strengthen the territory’s critical infrastructure.
WAPA plans to continue its educational tours throughout 2026, offering junior high and high school students opportunities to visit both the Randolph Harley Power Plant on St. Thomas and the Richmond Power Plant on St. Croix. The Authority aims to inspire curiosity, foster career readiness, and introduce young residents to STEM and utility careers.
Students, schools, and groups interested in visiting WAPA facilities can contact:
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.