Spire: 2026 SGA Award Winner

What challenge was this project or initiative created to solve?

The workforce of the future depends on the relationships we build today, so we’re always looking for opportunities to inspire youth to explore careers in energy. And often, community nonprofits can help us achieve that goal. 

In this case, Girls in the Know was searching for a partner to give a group of girls from the Ferguson-Florissant School District in north St. Louis County a chance to explore careers in the skilled trades. Inspired by their mission of empowering girls to embrace a strong sense of self, Spire Field Operations Supervisor Samantha (Sam) Wenzelburger knew this was a great opportunity to spotlight careers at Spire and teach girls that they, too, can work in the trades.

What approach or solution did your team implement?

In April 2025, more than a dozen girls ages 9 to 13 from an underserved St. Louis community visited a Spire training center for a day of hands-on learning in partnership with the nonprofit Girls in the Know. 

It was a chance for the young women to learn from female professionals and get inspired about career paths they might not have known of otherwise. 

During the event, students explored a variety of roles and visited interactive stations, including pipefitting, natural gas meter building, simulators and truck and equipment showcases.

What was the result or measurable outcome?

This hands-on event empowered the girls to embrace an even stronger sense of self. 

“This immersive visit reinforces our commitment to empowering young girls with knowledge, confidence and exposure to new opportunities that inspire their futures,” said Lori Lander, Girls in the Know founder.

How does this work reflect SGA’s mission to Share, Grow, and Advance the natural gas industry?

By sharing the fun and excitement of what it’s like to work in the natural gas industry, we’re growing the potential natural gas industry workforce of tomorrow. When young girls can gain exposure to the skilled trades, especially from women currently working in those fields, we’re advancing the industry and encouraging this as a valuable path for anyone to pursue.