Behind the Switch: How Power Plant Engineers Keep Energy Flowing
When someone flips a light switch, they rarely think about the countless individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver that power. They only know that when the switch is flipped, the light turns on.
For Emily Jones, an engineer contributing to that seamless experience, that’s precisely how it should be. While the work is demanding, the goal is to make the customer's experience effortless.
“Most people don’t realize how complex it is to ensure their light bulbs or ovens turn on whenever needed,” Jones explained. “It’s incredibly rewarding to learn about all the people involved in making this happen.”
As an electrical engineer at Duke Energy’s Gibson Steam Station, the company’s largest power plant located in southwestern Indiana, Jones focuses on regular preventive maintenance to keep equipment running smoothly. “We aim to ensure that motors and all the station’s equipment operate efficiently,” she added.
Ensuring Reliable Power for Millions
Workers like Jones are the unsung heroes enabling daily life. At Duke Energy, their efforts power approximately 8.4 million customers across six states, providing the electricity that keeps homes, businesses, and communities running.
“It’s exciting to work with a diverse and dedicated team like Emily’s,” said Bill Luke, vice president of Midwest Generation. “Their enthusiasm, paired with a focus on safety and operational excellence, is vital as we continue transitioning toward new energy opportunities.”
With over 7,500 power plant employees maintaining more than 115 facilities across six states, Duke Energy generates over 54,000 megawatts of electricity, including from coal, solar, natural gas, hydro, and nuclear. To honor their efforts, the company celebrates Power Plant Worker Appreciation Day every November 1.
“I’m proud to be part of this team,” Jones said. “Knowing we provide reliable, efficient energy to customers is incredibly fulfilling. Our priority is serving safely and ensuring energy is always available.”
From Stage Lights to Power Plants
Jones once dreamed of a career in the spotlight, aspiring to be an actor. Over time, her curiosity shifted to the lights above the stage, sparking an interest in how they worked. Inspired by her grandfather’s engineering career, she chose to follow in his footsteps. Today, instead of shining on stage, she helps illuminate communities across the region.
“As an engineer here, I contribute to the lives of hundreds of thousands of people daily,” she said.
Much like a theater production depends on its cast, a power plant relies on a collaborative team. At Gibson Station, Jones has found a close-knit group committed to delivering reliable energy for everything from movie nights to life-saving hospital equipment.
When storms threaten power, these workers often leave their homes to ensure their neighbors remain connected. Recently, Jones and her team celebrated 1,000 days of accident-free operations. “I felt immense pride,” she said. “Our team works safely, not just for recognition, but because we’re providing energy for our families and countless others.”
Energized for the Future
At 24, Jones is at the start of her career in a rapidly evolving field. As new technologies emerge, her role will continue to grow.
“I’m eager to learn new skills and use advanced technologies to advance my career,” she shared. “I could see myself retiring here—energy will always be essential.”
During her job interview, Jones expressed a desire to one day step into her manager’s role. Drawing on her acting background, she aspires to “direct” by managing engineers and understanding how each role contributes to the mission. She’s confident that as energy shifts from coal to renewables, problem-solving engineers will remain vital.
“I’m optimistic about the future,” she said. “We’ll see innovative technologies and creative solutions to challenges.”
As Duke Energy explores advancements like carbon capture, long-duration energy storage, and hydrogen, leaders like Chris Roeder, general manager at Gibson Station, are inspired by team members like Jones. “It’s exciting to have a team that embraces challenges and is eager to take on what’s next,” said Roeder.
Making Complexity Look Easy
Though the work of generating reliable energy is anything but simple, Jones and her colleagues strive to make it look effortless. Their dedication ensures energy is as dependable as flipping a switch.
“When I see streetlights guiding people at night or homes lit up with families enjoying their evenings, I feel proud,” Jones reflected. “None of it would be possible without the people working around the clock at power plants like this one.”
For Emily Jones, an engineer contributing to that seamless experience, that’s precisely how it should be. While the work is demanding, the goal is to make the customer's experience effortless.
“Most people don’t realize how complex it is to ensure their light bulbs or ovens turn on whenever needed,” Jones explained. “It’s incredibly rewarding to learn about all the people involved in making this happen.”
As an electrical engineer at Duke Energy’s Gibson Steam Station, the company’s largest power plant located in southwestern Indiana, Jones focuses on regular preventive maintenance to keep equipment running smoothly. “We aim to ensure that motors and all the station’s equipment operate efficiently,” she added.
Ensuring Reliable Power for Millions
Workers like Jones are the unsung heroes enabling daily life. At Duke Energy, their efforts power approximately 8.4 million customers across six states, providing the electricity that keeps homes, businesses, and communities running.
“It’s exciting to work with a diverse and dedicated team like Emily’s,” said Bill Luke, vice president of Midwest Generation. “Their enthusiasm, paired with a focus on safety and operational excellence, is vital as we continue transitioning toward new energy opportunities.”
With over 7,500 power plant employees maintaining more than 115 facilities across six states, Duke Energy generates over 54,000 megawatts of electricity, including from coal, solar, natural gas, hydro, and nuclear. To honor their efforts, the company celebrates Power Plant Worker Appreciation Day every November 1.
“I’m proud to be part of this team,” Jones said. “Knowing we provide reliable, efficient energy to customers is incredibly fulfilling. Our priority is serving safely and ensuring energy is always available.”
From Stage Lights to Power Plants
Jones once dreamed of a career in the spotlight, aspiring to be an actor. Over time, her curiosity shifted to the lights above the stage, sparking an interest in how they worked. Inspired by her grandfather’s engineering career, she chose to follow in his footsteps. Today, instead of shining on stage, she helps illuminate communities across the region.
“As an engineer here, I contribute to the lives of hundreds of thousands of people daily,” she said.
Much like a theater production depends on its cast, a power plant relies on a collaborative team. At Gibson Station, Jones has found a close-knit group committed to delivering reliable energy for everything from movie nights to life-saving hospital equipment.
When storms threaten power, these workers often leave their homes to ensure their neighbors remain connected. Recently, Jones and her team celebrated 1,000 days of accident-free operations. “I felt immense pride,” she said. “Our team works safely, not just for recognition, but because we’re providing energy for our families and countless others.”
Energized for the Future
At 24, Jones is at the start of her career in a rapidly evolving field. As new technologies emerge, her role will continue to grow.
“I’m eager to learn new skills and use advanced technologies to advance my career,” she shared. “I could see myself retiring here—energy will always be essential.”
During her job interview, Jones expressed a desire to one day step into her manager’s role. Drawing on her acting background, she aspires to “direct” by managing engineers and understanding how each role contributes to the mission. She’s confident that as energy shifts from coal to renewables, problem-solving engineers will remain vital.
“I’m optimistic about the future,” she said. “We’ll see innovative technologies and creative solutions to challenges.”
As Duke Energy explores advancements like carbon capture, long-duration energy storage, and hydrogen, leaders like Chris Roeder, general manager at Gibson Station, are inspired by team members like Jones. “It’s exciting to have a team that embraces challenges and is eager to take on what’s next,” said Roeder.
Making Complexity Look Easy
Though the work of generating reliable energy is anything but simple, Jones and her colleagues strive to make it look effortless. Their dedication ensures energy is as dependable as flipping a switch.
“When I see streetlights guiding people at night or homes lit up with families enjoying their evenings, I feel proud,” Jones reflected. “None of it would be possible without the people working around the clock at power plants like this one.”
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