CEST Chile’s Visit to Power Substation Strengthened Technical Learning 

Seeing firsthand how the energy that powers thousands of homes and services is transmitted allowed 12th-grade students of Centro Educativo Salesianos Talca (CEST), Chile, in the Electrical Technology program to broaden their understanding of the strategic role the electricity sector plays in the country’s development and in building a more sustainable future.

 The students participated in an educational and technical visit to the CELEO Ancoa Electrical Substation, located in the municipality of Colbún. The purpose of the activity was to complement their professional training through direct knowledge of the processes associated with the transmission and distribution of electrical energy, which are essential for ensuring a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly supply.

 The delegation was accompanied by the program director, Lucas Olave, and Professor Juan Carlos Abarza. The visit was made possible thanks to the efforts of Luz Clarita Caneo, Head of Public Relations and Communications at CELEO, who coordinated the reception and the tour of the facilities.

 The event was attended by Carlos Muena, the Regional Minister for Energy of the Maule Region, along with professionals Paola Bruna and Andrés Rodríguez. The regional official highlighted the importance of exposing young people to real-world work environments and strengthening the link between technical and vocational training and the needs of an energy industry that is moving toward higher sustainability standards.

 During the visit, students learned about the substation’s operations, the protection and safety systems that safeguard electrical operations, as well as procedures related to power distribution and its connection to the National Electric System. They also observed the work performed by specialized technicians in the field and the importance of efficient operations to optimize the use of energy resources and contribute to sustainable development.

 One of the most significant moments was the meeting with members of the work crew who had studied in the Electricity Specialization at CEST. The alumni shared their professional experiences, the challenges facing the industry, and the job opportunities offered by a sector increasingly committed to energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.

 Professor Lucas Olave highlighted the educational value of the activity. “The visit allowed us to reinforce the knowledge acquired in the classroom and understand the importance of substations within the national power grid. The students recognized the vital role these facilities play in ensuring a safe and reliable power supply for homes, businesses, and community services,” he said.

 Cristóbal Vilches, a 12th-grade student, appreciated the experience for the opportunity to understand the comprehensive operation of the electrical system. “We were able to see high-voltage electricity and understand that our education involves learning how it is generated, how it is transmitted, and how we can contribute to making the entire system work,” he said.

The student added that the visit allowed him to see how the content learned in class makes sense in real-world work contexts. 

The experience allowed students to envision their professional future from a broader perspective, understanding that electricity drives community development and plays a key role in building a more efficient and environmentally responsible environment.