GE Vernova Foundation Announces Bold, Future-Focused Engineers of Change Initiative to Inspire Next Generation Innovators and Leaders across the Upstate

Greenville, S.C. (April 22, 2026) - The GE Vernova Foundation today announced Engineers of Change, a dynamic new initiative designed to inspire the next generation of engineers and energy leaders through early exposure to engineering, hands-on learning, and direct connections with industry professionals. In partnership with global nonprofit organization FHI360 and backed by a $4.5 million commitment, the initiative aims to reach more than 6,000 students in Greenville, South Carolina, and Staffordshire, UK, over the next three years, helping build stronger pathways into engineering education, training, and careers.

The initiative is built around two complementary programs with Clemson University leading program delivery in Greenville:

• Engineering Spark engages students ages 13-14 in discovering engineering through dynamic, hands-on learning sessions led by GE Vernova engineers and volunteers, helping spark curiosity and expand understanding of what engineering is all about.
• Engineering Catalyst is an immersive, two-year program for students ages 15-18, featuring real-world design challenges, college and career readiness workshops, and engagement with GE Vernova engineers, designed to equip students with the skills and confidence to think like engineers, build a strong engineering identity, and pursue post-secondary studies or apprenticeships.

"Meeting the world's growing energy needs will require not only breakthrough technology, but people - bold thinkers, problem-solvers, and next generation leaders ready to shape the future," said Kristin Carvell, President, GE Vernova Foundation and Chief Communications Officer, GE Vernova. "Through Engineers of Change, we are helping young people see engineering not just as a career path, but as a mission with real-world impact. By bringing engineering to life in engaging, community-connected ways, we hope to ignite curiosity today and help build the workforce of tomorrow."

By making engineering tangible and inspiring, the initiative helps students connect their interests and skills to future opportunities in engineering and energy. Students completing the program will be awarded a partial scholarship for post-secondary engineering education and training.

"We're thrilled to work with GE Vernova Foundation and with our partners in Greenville, SC, and Staffordshire, UK, to inspire the next generation of engineers," said Steven Ehrenberg, Director of Programs at FHI 360. "I'm excited that students in Greenville and Staffordshire will have hands-on engineering experiences and the opportunity to meet and learn from professional engineers."

"Clemson University's PEER & WISE programs are proud of this impactful partnership with the GE Vernova Foundation and FHI 360 through Engineers of Change", said Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER & WISE. " We have seen how access, mentorship, and opportunity transform students into future engineering leaders. Through Engineering Spark and Engineering Catalyst, we are excited to empower the next generation to innovate, lead, and become catalysts for change."

Engineers of Change reflects the Foundation's commitment to strengthening the future energy workforce by inspiring more young people to pursue engineering, particularly in communities where GE Vernova operates. For more than 50 years, GE Vernova has been a part of the Greenville community, where the site manufactures gas turbines and provides global gas power and wind power engineering expertise. At a time when demand for engineering skills continues to grow, this initiative is intended to help strengthen local talent pipelines and create more pathways for students to explore, prepare for, and succeed in engineering careers. By aligning programming with local needs and long-term workforce development priorities, the GE Vernova Foundation is putting its purpose - The Energy to Change the World - into practice while helping develop the next generation of innovators and leaders needed to advance a more reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy future. Learn more about Engineers of Change.

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