Manager’s Message – March 2025

Investing in Our Future: Northern Wasco Peoples Utility District (NWCPUD) Scholarship Program

Throughout my career in the utility industry, 1 thing has remained constant: the need for bright, passionate individuals who want to make a difference in their communities. As we launch the Northern Wasco County PUD Board of Directors’ 2025 scholarship program, I’m excited about the opportunity to invest in our region’s next generation of leaders.

We’ve introduced a streamlined, all-online application process for our scholarship program this year, making it easier than ever for graduating seniors to apply. If you’re a high school senior, completing your GED or finishing homeschool—and your family receives an NWCPUD bill—you could be eligible for 1 of 3 scholarships we’re offering this year.

The utility industry includes an incredibly diverse range of career paths, from engineering and renewable energy to finance, communications and skilled trades, such as line work. These scholarships, totaling $10,000 distributed over 2 years, are designed to support students pursuing any field of study that could benefit the utility industry. Whether you’re dreaming of designing the smart grid of tomorrow, managing sustainable energy programs, or keeping the lights on as a member of a line crew, we want to help make that dream a reality.

What makes this program particularly meaningful is its investment in our community’s future. These aren’t just scholarships. They are a bridge to careers that could bring talented young professionals back to our region, contributing to the vitality and growth of our community. The funds are distributed thoughtfully, with half provided in the first fall semester and the remaining half the following fall, ensuring sustained support throughout your educational journey.

If you or someone you know is interested, I encourage you to visit our website for complete details and the online application. The deadline to apply is April 1. If you have any questions, please email Public Relations.

At Northern Wasco County PUD, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and strengthen communities. This scholarship program represents our commitment to nurturing local talent and supporting the next generation of utility industry professionals. Who knows? Today’s scholarship recipient could be tomorrow’s colleague, working alongside us to serve this remarkable community we call home.

Manager Roger Kline