HBCU
Energy Pathways Initiative
E4 Carolinas is dedicated to enhancing the energy workforce through our variety of educational and leadership programs. One of our key initiatives is the HBCU Energy Leadership Pathways, which serves as a catalyst for university students to pursue careers in the energy sector.
Program Overview
The HBCU Energy Leadership Pathways is an innovative collaboration between Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in the Carolinas and a wide variety of companies within the energy sector. This initiative aims to enhance the number of students from these institutions who pursue training and careers in the energy industry.
Recognizing that many students from marginalized communities are often unaware of the lucrative career opportunities available in this field, the program is meticulously structured in three phases, spanning from the first year of undergraduate study through graduation and beyond. By aligning with the existing four-year undergraduate curriculum, the Pathways program equips students with the necessary experience and credentials to thrive in the energy industry.
The program is designed to accommodate up to 30 students across nine HBCUs in North and South Carolina, offering a custom curriculum tailored to meet the specific needs of the energy sector. Participants benefit from comprehensive mentorship and networking opportunities, which are crucial for professional growth and development. Additionally, the program includes an Energy Challenge Competition, providing students with a platform to showcase their skills and innovative ideas. To further support their career aspirations, students receive paid internships, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
The entire initiative is guided by a Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI) Council, ensuring that the program remains inclusive and equitable for all participants.
Let's crunch the numbers
92
Applicants for the 2025 program
30
Students selected each year
9
Participating HBCUs in the Carolinas
90%
Internship placement rate
Program History
In December 2020, a group of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and energy companies in the Carolinas convened a Council to create a leadership pathway for HBCU students to the energy industry. Participating Pathway students will prepare for energy industry leadership careers beginning in their freshman year. They will acquire experience and credentials in addition to their regular education making them particularly attractive to energy industry employers. Students will be from all disciplines of interest to the energy industry, not just from engineering and technical disciplines.
The Pathway activated during the Spring 2022 semester with four focus HBCUs and has expanded to work with students across nine HBCUs in the Carolinas.