CEEM Invests $10,000 in New Scholarship Fund For Minnesota Students Pursuing Energy Careers

Minnesota West is proud to support the launch of the EmPowering Minnesota Scholars Fund, a new scholarship program from the Minnesota State Energy Center of Excellence that will help students prepare for careers in the growing energy industry.

The fund is being launched with a $10,000 gift from Clean Energy Economy Minnesota (CEEM) as part of the organization's 10th anniversary celebration. The gift will provide up to 10 scholarships of $1,000 each to students enrolled in energy-related programs across the Minnesota State system, including Minnesota West.

The Minnesota State Energy Center of Excellence will administer the funds through the Minnesota West Foundation and partner foundations across participating institutions.

Hosted by Minnesota West, the Minnesota State Energy Center of Excellence works with colleges, employers, and industry leaders to help students prepare for careers in fields such as wind energy, solar energy, HVAC, and electrical trades.

“Our sincerest appreciation to Logan for his leadership and dedication in leveraging this generosity across the Minnesota State system,” said Dr. Terry Gaalswyk, President of Minnesota West Community & Technical College. “This scholarship fund will help students across Minnesota pursue careers in the energy industry while addressing the workforce needs of our state.”

According to Logan Schrader, Executive Director of the Minnesota State Energy Center of Excellence, the scholarships will help reduce the financial burden many students face.

“A two-year program is about 45 credits or roughly $6,000 a year, so this gift helps cover a meaningful portion of that cost,” said Schrader. “Every little bit helps. These scholarships will support students training for careers in wind and solar energy, HVAC, electrical work, and other jobs that keep Minnesota powered.”

The gift from CEEM will support students across the Minnesota State system and also serve as the foundation for future scholarship growth. Businesses, organizations, and community partners are invited to contribute to the EmPowering Minnesota Scholars Fund to expand scholarship opportunities for students interested in energy careers.

“The best way to mark 10 years is to invest in the next generation,” said Holly Lahd, CEEM Board Chair. “Through this scholarship, our members are helping students prepare for careers in clean energy while building the workforce Minnesota needs for the future.”

For many students, a scholarship can make the difference between completing a degree or putting their education on hold. With technical college programs costing more than $6,500 per year, even a $1,000 scholarship can help students stay on track toward graduation.

“This investment makes education more affordable and helps students build successful careers,” added Schrader. “We hope other businesses and community partners will join us in supporting students through this fund.”

The launch of the EmPowering Minnesota Scholars Fund also supports the Energy Center's Powering Minnesota initiative, a statewide website that helps students, educators, employers, and families learn more about energy careers, educational programs, and opportunities throughout Minnesota.

Businesses and organizations interested in supporting the EmPowering Minnesota Scholars Fund are encouraged to contact the Minnesota State Energy Center of Excellence to learn how they can contribute.