Oakland – November 06, 2026 -- The PG&E Corporation Foundation has awarded $327,500 in scholarships to dozens of students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) at California colleges and universities and at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide.
The awards arrive ahead of National STEM Day on Nov. 8. This year's scholarships come in amounts of $2,500, $5,000 and $10,000 and go to 57 students from across Pacific Gas and Electric Company's service area.
Nearly $8 million awarded since 2012
The Better Together STEM Scholarship Program has given nearly $8 million to students since 2012. PG&E shareholders fund the program, and the cost is not recovered through customer rates.
Two UC Berkeley students share their stories
Quennel Kempe of Fresno, who studies computer science, received $5,000. Caden Kelly of Shingle Springs, who studies electrical engineering, received $2,500. Both attend UC Berkeley.
Kempe said, "Receiving the PG&E STEM Scholarship shows me that my community believes in me." Kelly said the scholarship lets him focus on his education without added financial stress. He plans to use his degree to support others and make STEM opportunities more accessible to future generations.
Who qualifies and how to reapply
Scholarships are based on academic achievement, participation and leadership in school and community activities, and financial need. Recipients may reapply annually for up to five years.
Applicants must plan to enroll full time for the entire 2026-2027 academic year. They must also be pursuing a first undergraduate degree at an accredited four-year institution in California.
HBCU eligibility was added recently because a growing number of applicants were admitted to historically Black colleges and universities. None of those schools is in California.
Carla Peterman, President of PG&E Corporation and Chair of The PG&E Corporation Foundation Board, said the Foundation hopes the students find paths that lead to innovation and also bring them fulfillment and a sense of purpose.
Employee groups raise more than $6 million
PG&E's 11 employee resource groups and three engineering networking groups also award scholarships to offset the cost of higher education. The funds come entirely from employee contributions, including direct donations, fundraising events and the company's Campaign for the Community giving program. Since 1989, more than $6 million has been raised and awarded to thousands of local students.