ComEd Empowers Local Students with $190,500 in Scholarships for STEM and Trades Careers

ComEd, a leading electric utility company in Illinois, has announced the award of $190,500 in scholarships to 83 local students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) and trades. The Future of Energy Scholarship program, launched in 2021, aims to reduce the financial burden for students and create a diverse pipeline of talent for the growing energy sector.

The scholarship program offers awards of up to $10,000 for college STEM programs and up to $2,500 for trade school programs. Since its inception, ComEd has awarded over $1 million in scholarships, helping 180 students across northern Illinois. The program has reached a diverse mix of students, with 96% of new awardees identified as people of color or women, and 10% attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

In addition to financial assistance, scholars may also be eligible for internship opportunities with ComEd or Exelon. Bindu Mukundappa, a 2023 and 2024 Future of Energy Scholar, shared that the scholarship not only removed a financial barrier for her as an immigrant but also led her to a career path in electrical transmission and distribution. "My parents were very happy and proud that I was able to help them pay for my education," she said.

The Future of Energy Scholarship program aligns with Illinois' clean energy job growth projections, as the clean energy transition is expected to bring as many as 150,000 new jobs by 2050. By supporting students in STEM and trades, ComEd is helping to create a pipeline of diverse talent to fill these jobs and ensure that Illinois has the skilled workforce it needs to meet the demands of the clean energy industry.

ComEd's commitment to workforce development and economic growth is evident in its ongoing initiatives. In 2023, the company won 15 major business development projects that will bring an estimated 4,385 new jobs and $8.6 billion in capital investment to the region. Additionally, ComEd's workforce development programming served over 3,500 students and adults, representing a 75% growth in reach of its programs.

By investing in local students and providing them with the education and training needed for energy sector careers, ComEd is helping to create a cleaner, brighter, and more prosperous future for all in northern Illinois. The Future of Energy Scholarship program is just one example of how ComEd is preparing more future leaders for careers in energy and construction, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and sustainability of the region.