Across the country, EEI member companies are working to build the next-generation energy workforce–one with diverse, highly skilled, and qualified employees.

As an example, FirstEnergy’s Power Systems Institute (PSI) is awarding up to 50 scholarships this year to underrepresented candidates who reside in the company’s service area. The scholarships are the first offered under the FirstEnergy PSI Equal Access Scholarship Program, an initiative that encourages men and women from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds to pursue learning a skilled craft in the PSI program.

The FirstEnergy PSI Equal Access Scholarship Program helps students attending the 21-month program with their living expenses. The scholarship is offered to diverse students who traditionally have been underrepresented in the skilled craft trades.

The scholarships offer up to $1,000 per month, not to exceed $21,000 over the duration of the program. It will be distributed quarterly to students who remain active in PSI, and can be used to offset housing, transportation, and other living expenses during participation in the PSI program.

"FirstEnergy understands and supports the value of PSI students from diverse cultures and various ethnic backgrounds," said Dave Karafa, Vice President of Distribution Support for FirstEnergy. "FirstEnergy is committed to, and benefits from, the full and equitable participation of a diverse community. The program's mission is to provide these students with the opportunity to attain their professional goals while advancing the utility industry."

FirstEnergy originally introduced PSI in 2000 to help replace retiring line and substation workers. The PSI program combines classroom learning with hands-on training. Programs were established with colleges throughout the company's six-state service area. For qualified students, FirstEnergy pays tuition, required books, and lab fees. Graduates of the program receive an Associate of Technical Studies degree with a focus on electric power industry technology.

Read FirstEnergy’s story about a young woman pursuing her dreams through the PSI program.

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