Preparingthe next generation of climate leadersstarts with opportunity, and that'sexactly what the City University of New York (CUNY)ClimateScholars program, in partnership with Bloomberg, is designed to create.

Connecting education and experience

The Bloomberg team recently welcomed a group of CUNY Climate Scholars to our Global Headquarters in New York for an afternoon of learning and connection focused on careers in sustainability, renewable energy, and climate solutions. The visit was part of Bloomberg's Your Path, Your Future program, an initiative that introduces students to careers in industries where Bloomberg has expertise and connects them with professionals who can help guide their next steps.

The CUNY Immersive Research Experience - Climate Scholars program brings together students from nine CUNY colleges who are passionate about advancing sustainability and driving climate solutions. Over six months, Scholars take part in mentorship, research labs, and internships focused on renewable energy and climate resiliency. Since its inception in 2020, 37 students have graduated from the program, many continuing into careers in climate policy, renewable energy, climate finance, and climate justice.

As part of Bloomberg's partnership, students garner insights from BloombergNEF (BNEF), Bloomberg's strategic research provider, covering global commodity markets and the disruptive technologies shaping the future of the energy transition. Students also participate in events like the Bloomberg Green Summit, where they engage directly with Bloomberg professionals and global leaders shaping the future of sustainability.

"At Bloomberg, we believe that helping students explore careers in complex fields like sustainability starts with connecting to people, knowledge, and real-world experience," said Nancy Cutler, Head of Corporate Philanthropy, Americas at Bloomberg. "Through Your Path, Your Future, we connect students with professionals who share firsthand insight that'soften hard to find in a classroom. The CUNY Climate Scholars visit offersstudents a chance to see what'spossible and the guidance to navigate a rapidly evolving sector."

Honoring a legacy of leadership

The scholars heard from Baruch College President Dr S. David Wu, as well as Dr. Eliot Friedman, husband of the late Dr Mindy Engle-Friedman, the visionary founder of the Climate Scholars program. The event also served as a tribute to Dr. Engle-Friedman, whose leadership and passion for experiential learning established the foundation of the program. Her dedication to mentoring students and advancing climate literacy continues to shape its mission and impact today.

"The event at Bloomberg exemplified the power of partnership between higher education and industry to inspire and prepare the next generation of climate leaders," said Baruch College President Dr. S. David Wu. "Through the Climate Scholars program and experiences like this one, our students gain firsthand insight into how Bloomberg applies data, technology, and innovation to address global sustainability challenges. We are deeply grateful to the Bloomberg team for opening their doors and showing our students what's possible when purpose meets opportunity."

Learning in action

During their visit, the Scholars met with Bloomberg professionals from BNEF, Human Resources, and Corporate Philanthropy to explore career opportunities and learn how Bloomberg applies data and technology to advance sustainability worldwide. Stephanie Diaz, an analyst at BNEF, shared how her work combines research and data to support innovation in clean energy and climate solutions.

"I first visited Bloomberg as a confused student still figuring out my career path," said Stephanie Diaz, BloombergNEF technology and innovation analyst. "That experience introduced me to BNEF and its work at the intersection of data, finance, and sustainability, which ultimately led me here. It was an honor to pass that favor forward and hopefully inspire the next generation of students exploring their own paths."

After the presentation and a networking lunch with BloombergNEF analysts, students toured Bloomberg's offices and gained firsthand insight into how the company's data and research help drive global progress toward a more sustainable future.

"Gaining firsthand insights into the climate solutions and research conducted at BloombergNEF is a truly rare opportunity for anyone, let alone a student," said Rachel (Zheyi) Xie, CUNY Climate Scholar. "Learning the day-to-day tasks of expert analysts and touring the sustainability-driven office space provided me and my fellow climate scholars with a hopeful and concrete view of the critical work being done to drive global sustainability and efficiency. A big thank you to Bloomberg for providing these unique and invaluable experiences for us climate scholars!"

As we work together to build a healthier planet and stronger communities, programs like Your Path, Your Futurehelp ensure that students aren't just learning about progress, they're leading it. The CUNY Climate Scholars visit was more than a day of networking; it offered a firsthand look at how collaboration between education, business, and philanthropy can open doors to meaningful careers. Alongside global initiatives such as Bloomberg Finance Pathways, which connects students to data, expertise, and mentorship in finance, this program reflects our commitment to preparing young people to lead in a changing world. Together, these efforts demonstrate how Bloomberg connects our global reach with local impact, empowering the next generation to turn knowledge into action.