Students from Sonnie Hereford Elementary School recently took part in a hands-on learning experience at Huntsville Utilities Education Day, where they explored the many departments and essential services that keep the city running safely and efficiently.
During the visit, students rotated through a series of interactive stations, including the Training Yard, Bucket Truck Demonstration, Dispatch Center, Natural Gas Division, and Water System Operations. Each stop offered a unique glimpse into the science, technology, and teamwork behind Huntsville Utilities’ daily operations.
At the Training Yard, students watched line-workers demonstrate how they safely climb utility poles and repair electrical lines. The Bucket Truck demonstration sparked excitement as students saw how crews restore power during outages and maintain electrical systems high above the ground. Even 4th Grade teacher Mrs. Matthew got a chance to ride up in the bucket truck.
Inside the Dispatch Center, students learned how real-time communication and monitoring help ensure reliable service across Huntsville. They were also introduced to the Natural Gas department, where they discovered the importance of safety checks, leak detection, and the systems that deliver energy to homes and businesses. The Water Division provided one of the day’s biggest takeaways, showing how clean water travels from treatment plants to every faucet in the city, and how conservation plays a key role in maintaining the supply.
“This was a powerful learning experience for our students,” said Assistant Principal Irving McGuire. “They were able to see how science, math, and problem-solving apply to real-world careers right here in their community.”
As part of Sonnie Hereford’s ongoing focus on career exploration and hands-on learning, the Education Day field trip provided an unforgettable opportunity for students to connect academics to the essential services that power their city.