Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company
12/01/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/01/2021 12:46
BHE Renewables Sponsors Award to Imperial Valley College Foundation
Wednesday December 1 2021
BHE Renewables Sponsors Award to Imperial Valley College Foundation
Filed Under:News ReleasesBHE Renewables is pleased to present the Imperial Valley College Foundation with $25,000 to sponsor student scholarships in science, technology, engineering and math - STEM - education at Imperial Valley College. The Berkshire Hathaway Energy Foundation funded the award, which supports Berkshire Hathaway Energy's commitment to education.
"Imperial Valley College plays a vital role in providing a trained workforce for Imperial County, especially when it comes to STEM curriculum," said Alicia Knapp, president and CEO, BHE Renewables. "Given that approximately 14% of all jobs in the Imperial Valley have some connection back to Imperial Valley College, we see these scholarships as a great way to support the local community as well as prepare our future geothermal and lithium workforce."
"This very generous gift from BHE Renewables supports scholarships for Imperial Valley College students studying the STEM curriculum and fills a void for Imperial Valley College," said Lennor Johnson, interim superintendent/president for Imperial Valley College. "As the geothermal industry expands into the recovery of minerals such as lithium, the need for well-educated students in science and mathematics is more important than ever. Providing education that evolves into great jobs is one of the most important things Imperial Valley College can do for our students and our community."
"Strengthening education and local career-building opportunities is vital to uplifting our region. We greatly appreciate BHE Renewables' support of Imperial Valley College students and their commitment to ensuring workforce training pathways for high-skilled jobs," said Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella). "This partnership with our school will help create quality local jobs and build the Imperial Valley economy."
Located in Imperial, California, Imperial Valley College enrolls up to 9,000 students. Last year, more than 7,200 associate degrees and 1,075 certificates were awarded.
"We appreciate the partnership with BHE Renewables to help further Imperial Valley College's mission of assisting students in achieving their educational and career goals," said Rod Smart, executive director of the Imperial Valley College Foundation. "Through these scholarships, we can provide a quality education that enriches lives and builds futures."
About BHE Renewables
BHE Renewables is a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy and is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa. BHE Renewables owns solar, wind, geothermal and hydroelectric projects that produce energy for both the wholesale market and for customers under long-term power agreements. BHE Renewables' 10 geothermal facilities operate as CalEnergy Operations and are based in Calipatria, California.