FWEE Receives Hydropower Career and STEM Academies Public Education Award

The Foundation for Water and Energy Education (FWEE) received the National Hydropower Association (NHA) Outstanding Stewards of America’s Waters (OSAW) Public Education Award.  OSAW awards annually recognize organizations in the waterpower industry for projects exhibiting exemplary operational, educational, historical, recreational, or environmental enhancement and stewardship. Click here for a video featuring 2024 OSAW Award winner projects and leadership.

FWEE received the public education award for its Hydropower Career and STEM Academies that are currently located in Wenatchee, Tri-Cities and SW Washington. At the end of June, each academy takes up to 24 students on a journey featuring hands-on STEM challenges, tours, career explorations, and industry mentors.

The hydropower industry, which generates over half of the Northwest’s electricity, needs students like this to step-up to the challenge of being tomorrow’s workforce. Currently, retirements are on the rise and recruiting in rural areas is difficult. At the same time, the industry has a long-term goal of supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce.

“The academies address these needs,” said FWEE Executive Director Andy Dunau “by introducing students to clean energy careers right in their backyard.” Said Jodi Henderson, Manager of Government & Community Relations with Benton PUD, “It’s how we encourage, empower and enable the next generation to stay, play, and engage in the communities we serve.”

Academies are made possible by combining support from FWEE members with sponsorships from the National Energy Renewable Laboratory, Microsoft, and an array of committed local partners. Local support and leadership ensure each academy reflects the cultural and economic strengths and opportunities of each community.

To learn more, visit www.fwee.org/academies. Applications to join 2025 academies open this January.