DEED Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by American Public Power Association

Overview
DEED (Distributed Energy Education & Development) funds student pathways into energy-related careers through three distinct programs: lineworker and technical education scholarships, paid student internships, and student research grants. The programs focus on skills that public power utilities need and connect students with community utilities for sponsorship and work experience. DEED also provides career videos and points to APPA’s online job board for current public power positions.

Key takeaways
- Three program types: scholarships, internships, research grants.
- Programs target careers in public power and utility operations.
- Career videos and APPA job board available for career exploration.

Eligibility
DEED funding is available to students attending or planning to attend an accredited U.S. vocational school, lineworker program, or two- to four-year college/university. Applicants must not be graduating within 12 months of the application deadline. Specific program eligibility (for example, sponsorship requirements) is detailed in each program’s application materials.

Key takeaways
- Must attend an accredited U.S. postsecondary institution or program.
- Not eligible if graduating within 12 months of the deadline.
- Check individual program pages for additional requirements.

Application process and timeline
DEED runs two application cycles each year with deadlines in February and October. Applicants must request login credentials by emailing [email protected], submit the web-based application, and upload official transcripts by the posted deadline. Utilities interested in hosting interns should consult the Utility Guide for Internship Funding to learn how APPA/DEED member communities can apply to sponsor an intern.

Key takeaways
- Two cycles per year; February and October deadlines.
- Request account via [email protected] to begin the online application.
- Official transcripts and completed applications are required by the deadline.
- Utilities should read the Utility Guide for Internship Funding before applying to host interns.

Lineworker and Technical Education Scholarships
Description: These scholarships fund students pursuing lineworker and other in-demand technical utility careers. A DEED member utility must sponsor scholarship applications, and applicants should review the program checklist and questions before applying. The scholarship supports classroom and training costs that lead directly to utility employment.

Award Value
- Each scholarship awards $2,000, paid directly to the recipient’s university or training institution.

Key takeaways
- Intended for lineworker and technical utility career training.
- DEED member utility sponsorship is required.
- $2,000 award paid to the school on behalf of the student.
- Review the scholarship checklist and questions before applying.

Student Internships
Description: DEED-funded internships place students in paid positions at participating member utilities to provide hands-on experience in public power operations. Internships are structured to develop workforce-ready skills and may include opportunities to attend industry conferences. Interested applicants should consult the internship application materials for role expectations and selection criteria.

Award Value
- Internships provide $4,000 in support, plus up to $1,000 in travel funds for attending an applicable conference.

Key takeaways
- Paid internships hosted by DEED member utilities.
- $4,000 stipend plus up to $1,000 for conference travel.
- Focused on practical, utility-specific work experience.
- See internship application materials for program details.

Other energy-related scholarships and partners
DEED highlights additional organizations that offer scholarships and support across specialized energy fields—from lineman competitions to professional societies that fund engineering students. These partner programs expand options for students outside DEED’s core scholarships and internships and include national, regional, and specialty scholarships.

Key takeaways
- RMEL Foundation: electric energy industry scholarships.
- International Lineman’s Rodeo: lineman-specific scholarships.
- AABE, SWE, IEEE PES, ANS: professional societies offering targeted scholarships.
- Southeast Community College: local AAS degree scholarships in Energy Generation Operations.

Directories of accredited technical and postsecondary programs
Students should verify program accreditation when applying for scholarships or selecting training programs. Authoritative directories include the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs and the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) directory for vocational program approvals.

Key takeaways
- Confirm program accreditation before applying or enrolling.
- U.S. Department of Education’s OPE database lists accredited institutions and programs.
- ACCSC directory lists approved vocational and career school programs.

For help or to start an application
Email [email protected] to request login credentials or with questions about program eligibility, application materials, or utility sponsorship. Review program-specific requirements, checklists, and application questions before submitting materials.