PG&E Awards $350K in STEM Scholarships to 60 Students

Dreams of becoming a scientist, engineer, or tech innovator just got more affordable for California students. The PG&E Foundation is opening applications for its Better Together STEM Scholarship Program, offering up to $10,000 to help young people power their education and the state's clean energy future.

This year, 60 students will share $350,000 in scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $10,000. The funding comes entirely from shareholder donations, not customer bills, and targets students pursuing degrees in engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, environmental sciences, math, and physics.

"The PG&E Better Together STEM Scholarship represents a dedication to uplifting young people," said Samiksha Lingan, a 2025 recipient studying data science at UC Berkeley. "It helps ensure we can realize our dreams and give back to those around us without being deterred by financial obstacles."

The program welcomes high school seniors, current undergraduates, military veterans returning to school, and anyone seeking their first bachelor's degree. Students must live in PG&E's Northern or Central California service area and plan to attend an accredited four-year California institution or a Historically Black College or University anywhere in the United States.

Applications close March 12, 2026, with winners announced by August. Selection criteria include academic achievement, leadership in school and community activities, personal triumph over challenges, and financial need.

The Ripple Effect

Since launching in 2012, this program has invested $7.8 million in California's next generation of problem solvers. The foundation has continuously expanded access, adding a $5,000 scholarship tier in 2023 to reach more families and opening eligibility to HBCU students nationwide in 2022 after seeing increased interest.

Meanwhile, PG&E's 11 employee resource groups are separately awarding over $300,000 in scholarships funded entirely through coworker donations and fundraising events. Since 1989, these grassroots efforts have provided more than $6 million to thousands of students.

"We're privileged to be able to help students pursue their academic dreams," said Joe Wilson, vice president of PG&E's North Valley & Sierra Region.

Students ready to shape tomorrow's clean energy landscape can start their applications today.