Columbia graduate lands career through partnership between S.C. Chamber, Dominion.

• Position: Justin McElveen

The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and Dominion Energy co-hosted a "signing day" Tuesday where Columbia resident Justin McElveen announced he will begin his career in Dominion Energy's full-time apprentice lineman program.

The ceremonial event commemorates a successful partnership between the S.C.Chamber Foundation and Dominion Energy to create and expand pathways to recruit, employ and retain people from underrepresented populations in the state.

The partnership was born from Dominion's support of the foundation's new Center for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The center focuses on increasing inclusive employment pathways, which aligns with Dominion's stated goals of enhancing workforce diversity and making young adults aware of well-paying secure jobs that do not require college degrees.

"The rigors of working as an apprentice lineman require a strong work ethic, physical strength and technical aptitude," said Keller Kissam, president of Dominion Energy South Carolina. "For those who rise to meet the challenge, it can be a rewarding...