Energize Colleges develops custom and off-the-shelf higher education curricula for climate, sustainability, and energy topics.
HBCU Energy Leadership Pathway
SEI developed the curriculum for the HBCU Energy Leadership Pathway, an initiative of E4 Carolinas, the Carolinas’ leading trade association for energy companies and organizations, to connect students from eight Historically Black Colleges and Universities with careers in clean energy. Students complete online modules and participate in a spring Energy Industry Challenge — a hands-on competition featuring student-led pitches, an energy bootcamp, keynote speakers, and an energy facility tour.
The HBCU Energy Leadership Pathway is made possible through support from the Duke Energy Foundation, HASI Foundation, Z Smith Reynolds Foundation, and other sponsors.
Students connect during the energy facilities tour.
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Students listen to peer presentations during the Spring Energy Industry Challenge.
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Students participate in an energy facilities tour.
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This experience has not only broadened my knowledge of the growing energy sector, but has also allowed me to build lasting connections with such wonderful people... I’m excited to see the impact we’ll all make as changemakers."
- Jordyn Champion, Biological Engineering Student at North Carolina A&T
I see energy-related careers aligning with my interests more than I did before. Learning about the impact engineers can have on creating sustainable solutions and improving how society uses energy has been truly inspiring. It showed me that I can use my skills to help solve real-world problems like climate change and energy efficiency. The opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives and contribute to a better future is what really motivates me to explore a career in the energy industry."
- Kasey Wharton, Mechanical Engineering Student at North Carolina A&T
Many colleges and universities are eager to more robustly incorporate climate and sustainability themes into curriculum, and to direct students to rewarding, well-paying green careers."
— Ondrea Austin, SEI Eastern Regional Manager
Through the HBCU Energy Leadership Pathway, I have greatly improved my knowledge of the Energy industry, sharpened my networking skills, and connected with many successful industry experts, as well as many future energy experts. From the learning modules provided to the tour of the Siemens Energy plant, this program is perfect for anyone looking to start a career in the Energy industry." |
This opportunity means a lot — not only will I be gaining hands-on experience, but I’ll also get to collaborate with an amazing team and grow alongside other driven students. I really enjoyed attending the networking mixer and connecting with professionals and fellow participants. Huge thank you to Aleena Oakley for being so supportive and welcoming — your leadership is truly inspiring. And thank you to E4 Carolinas and SEI for hosting such a powerful and meaningful program!" |
Kaleb presents along with his group for the Energy Industry Challenge.
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Students reference online modules to complete their presentation.
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The curriculum modules gave me valuable insight into sustainable career paths and empowered me to pursue a career in the energy industry. I learned to create and innovate, which are skills needed as we transition to clean energy."
— Kaleb Griffin, Student, Johnson C. Smith University
To learn about current curriculum opportunities please contact us.
