TRUCKEE, Calif. —Last month, Truckee Donner Public Utility District’s board of directors awarded two scholarships to college-bound seniors as part of the TDPUD Future Workforce Scholarship Program. The scholarships target both college-bound high school seniors and the trade and vocational skills that make electric and water utilities function. These awards were for two college bound seniors who submitted outstanding applications and demonstrated need. 

TDPUD awarded two $10,000 ($2,500/year) scholarships to Naomi Park and Zachary Harris, both graduating seniors from Truckee High School who have been accepted into four-year college programs. Naomi Park will be attending Cal Poly SLO for Civil Engineering and Zachary Harris will be attending the University of San Francisco for Actuarial Studies. Both submitted outstanding applications, and each had unmet financial need for a local need-based awards. 

“The PUD is delighted to be able to support our young community members as they work to create a better future,” said TDPUD board president Christa Finn. “The hustle and dedication they have shown makes me proud and I look forward to what they will accomplish next.” 

The electric and water utility sectors have experienced dramatic changes over the last few decades, driven by technology, the environment, and customer expectations. The need to recruit and retain top-level talents remains critical to achieving TDPUD’s mission. While TDPUD’s challenges are somewhat unique to our community, almost every electric and water utility in California and beyond face challenges in the recruitment and retention of top talent. This new scholarship program is an important investment in the future workforce and TDPUD’s continued ability to serve the community. 

TDPUD partnered with the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation to most effectively implement its new scholarships. TTCF’s existing scholarship programs serve both local college-bound high school seniors and those pursuing vocational or industry degrees/certifications. TTCF has also evolved into the hub for local scholarship programs, teaming with more than 100 local agencies and organizations to administer their scholarship programs. 

“Congratulations to our scholarship recipients Naomi Park and Zachary Harris,” said TDPUD board member Courtney Murrell. “The Truckee Donner PUD looks forward to your growth, enthusiasm and return to the community.” 

To be eligible for a TDPUD scholarship, the applicant must live within the TDPUD’s service territory and be a TDPUD customer or a dependent of a customer. Scholarship applicants must meet the requirements of the TTCF scholarship application process and timelines. The TDPUD is also requiring a short, written response sharing how they will use their degree or certification to benefit the community. Additional details include: 

Annual College Scholarships: 

• One four-year technical degree award for $2,500/year ($10,000 total). The award will be for the total amount, but paid annually. The applicant must be accepted into and attend an accredited four-year college/university within the fields of engineering, computer science, information technology, environmental sciences, arborist/forestry, or hydrology (or equivalent). 
• One two or four-year degree award for $2,500/year ($5,000 – $10,000 total). The award will be for the total amount but paid annually. The applicant must be accepted into and attend an accredited two- or four-year college/university. Degree being pursued must be in the fields of business, finance, economics, communications, marketing, HR management, or public administration (or equivalent). This scholarship cycle, from application to award, runs from January through May. 

Annual Utility Operations Workforce Scholarships: 

• Two lineman school awards for $7,500 each. The applicant must be accepted into and attend an accredited lineman school, such as the Northwest Lineman College or equivalent, to become an apprentice lineman. The funds will be provided 50 percent upon award and 50 percent upon verified completion of the program. 
• Three awards for utility-related certifications, up to $2,000 each. The applicant must enroll in and complete a program or certification in one of the following fields: water utility, automotive technician, construction standards, electrician, commercial driver’s license, business/finance administration, clerk, notary and certified translation. This scholarship cycle, from application to award, runs from May through July. 

For those interested in applying for a TDPUD scholarship, please visit tdpud.org/scholarships.