Teachers from Bremen High School District 228 participated in ComEd’s “Tools of the Trade” Teacher Professional Development Day on Tuesday, February 17, at the ComEd Conference Center in Oak Brook.
Representing D228 were Dan Mack (Bremen/Hillcrest), Bill Carrig (Tinley Park/ Oak Forest), Joe Moberg (Tinley Park), Tony David (Oak Forest/Bremen), and Dan Brown (Oak Forest/Bremen). The hands-on workshop provided educators with an in-depth look at careers in skilled trades and the energy sector, equipping them with industry knowledge to bring back to their classrooms.
The full-day professional development experience included sessions on careers in skilled trades, energy workforce pathways, and ComEd’s “Get into Energy” initiative . Teachers also engaged in a panel discussion featuring subject matter experts who discussed utility careers in overhead, underground, transmission, and substation work .
A highlight of the day was participation in interactive, work-based learning rotations . Educators rotated through hands-on stations focused on crossarm assembly, components of a cable, T&S (transmission and substation), and blueprint reading . These experiences provided practical insight into the technical skills and safety protocols required in the energy industry.
Additional sessions included a safety message, program overview, CAST test overview, and collaborative discussions on teaching methods and industry prerequisites . The day concluded with lunch and a Q&A session , allowing teachers to further connect with ComEd representatives and workforce development professionals.
By participating in this immersive professional development opportunity, D228 educators strengthened partnerships with industry leaders and enhanced their ability to connect classroom learning to real-world career pathways. Experiences like this support the District’s commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers in skilled trades and energy.