In April, EPUD awarded $25,000 in scholarships to five local students through its annual EmPOWERing Scholarships program! Each year, men and women who are pursuing fields of study seen regularly in the electric utility industry apply for the scholarship. Applications poured in this year after it was announced that the scholarship amount was increased to $5,000. Through the scholarship program, each recipient receives funding to help with the cost of training that may lead to utility careers in their future.
Congratulations to the 2024 scholarship winners!
Aaron Gust started on his path towards a rewarding career as a lineman soon after graduating from high school. He attended Northwest Lineman College to learn about maintaining and repairing power lines, and is now pursuing an apprenticeship program so he can continue working to become a journeyman lineman. Aaron looks forward to the day when he is called to restore power after the lights go out.
Nicholas Taddei started planning a career as a lineworker while serving his second year in the Navy. His years in the Armed Forces gave him a strong work ethic and core values of honor, courage, and commitment — values that he feels are strongly aligned with power utilities. January's ice storm further motivated him to pursue a career as a lineman so he can someday restore power to the people in his community.
Grant Barnes grew up involved in robotics and raising swine through 4-H. These activities helped him to recognize hard work, discipline, and a positive attitude as tools he’ll need to achieve the career he’s after. Grant plans to earn a business degree before moving into the field of low-voltage and/or high-voltage electrical work. This will allow him to do the hands-on work he craves while also utilizing his problem-solving skills.
Reese Biehler decided on becoming a lineman after considering many career options and recognizing all the ways line work can provide what he wants in his future. This includes an environment where he can remain physically fit and utilize his abilities to problem-solve, troubleshoot, and be a team player. It will also provide frequent opportunities to use his customer service skills when working with contractors, other utilities, and customers.
Ryan Mattie spent his high school years as a dedicated student with a commitment to academic achievement, and he now looks forward to making a positive impact in the electric utility industry. He plans to attend VOLTA line school, where he will begin his training to become a lineman. He is committed to focusing on his training, working towards achieving his academic and career aspirations, and someday contributing meaningfully to his community.