Launch Your Engineering
Career with REI

Start Your Journey

About the Program

The REIgnite Program is REI’s career launchpad for students and early-career engineers ready to shape the future of utility engineering.

Our mission is simple: make REI the “Utility Engineering Career Accelerator”—where emerging engineers learn, grow, and gain real-world experience powering reliable energy across Texas and beyond. Through hands-on projects, mentorship from licensed engineers, and a clear growth path, participants build the skills and confidence to advance from student to professional engineer.

REI's full staff

Why REIgnite?

Jumpstart your career with paid, hands-on experience tackling real-world utility projects

Get a head start on your engineering license with mentorship and credited hours from professional engineers

Connect and grow your network with industry leaders and supportive mentors

Discover your unique path with exposure to diverse, impactful careers in utility engineering

Step confidently into the industry as a future leader in reliable energy and infrastructure

Program Pathways

Engineering in Training (EIT) – Associate Engineer

  • Become part of a fast-growing team focused on building and maintaining the electric grid.
  • Learn the full process: from engineering & design, testing & commissioning, field data collection and line design to compliance and safety standards.
  • Prepare for your Engineer-in-Training (EIT) milestones and accelerate your path to licensure.
Apply Now

Engineering Co-Op

  • Join long-term, paid placements where you work side-by-side with Professional Engineers (PEs) on projects that power communities.
  • Gain supervised, credited hours towards your PE license and see design standards in action out in the field.
  • Build deep technical skills and industry insight that go beyond the classroom.
Apply Now

University Internship

  • Spend your summer applying classroom concepts to real utility engineering challenges.
  • Collaborate with field teams on active projects and gain practical skills.
  • Open doors to future roles in co-op placements or EIT tracks within distribution and substation engineering.
Apply Now

High School Internship

  • Get an early start in engineering at REI's headquarters in Athens, TX.
  • Immerse yourself in real-world engineering concepts, mentorship opportunities, and structured learning.
  • Experience the impact of distribution and substation engineering while exploring career possibilities.
Apply Now

FAQs

We offer several paths depending on where you are in your education or career:
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Program: For recent graduates on the path to PE licensure.
  • Engineering Co-op: For college students seeking paid, hands-on experience during the semester.
  • University Internship: For undergraduates looking to apply classroom learning to real projects during the summer.
  • High School Internship: For juniors and seniors exploring careers in engineering and utilities.
Yes. All REIgnite programs are paid opportunities. Compensation varies by program type, education level, and location — but every participant is treated as part of the REI team and compensated for their time and contributions.

All programs are in-person and based out of our Texas offices and field project sites.
Our interns and EITs work directly with engineers and field crews to gain true, on-site experience in how power infrastructure is designed and built.

Many universities grant credit for co-ops and internships. We’re happy to coordinate with your school’s career or engineering office to provide documentation needed for credit approval. Talk with your advisor before applying to confirm your institution’s specific requirements.
We primarily recruit students and graduates in:
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Construction Management
  • GIS / Geomatics
However, students in related technical or business programs (like Industrial Engineering or Project Management) are also encouraged to apply.
At this time, REI Utility Services does not offer visa sponsorship for internship or EIT roles. Applicants must have authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship now or in the future.

Universities We Engage With

We’re proud to partner with schools across Texas that share our vision for developing the next generation of engineers.

  • University of Houston
  • Texas A&M University–Kingsville
  • Texas A&M University–Commerce
  • Local high schools across East Texas

Join the REIgnite Network

  • Students: Apply through our Careers Page.
  • Universities & Schools: Partner with us to open doors for your students.
  • Contact Email: jennie.sutton@reiutilityservices.com
Apply or Connect Today

Get In Touch With REI

Built on Integrity. Defined by Reliability. Here when you need us.

Give Us a Call

Office Location:

710 Lucas Dr.
Athens, TX 75751

Hours of Operation:

Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

Phone:

903-675-2227

Email:

Reiadmin@reiutilityservices.com