Last week, Arkansas Advanced Energy Association welcomed its first class of Power Players, a new scholarship and leadership program for Arkansas high school students designed to build energy awareness, leadership skills, and community engagement. Out of the more than 100 program applicants, 23 Arkansas high school students from 16 schools throughout the state were chosen for the exclusive program.

"The Power Players Scholarship Program is about much more than financial assistance, it's about investing in the next generation of Arkansas leaders," said Ebony Mitchell, Director of External Affairs for Arkansas Advanced Energy. "We intentionally select students with diverse interests, backgrounds, and experiences because the future of energy will require many different perspectives and skill sets. We hope this program sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and helps students recognize the important role they can play in shaping stronger communities and Arkansas's energy future."

Power Players is open to rising high school juniors and rising seniors from across the state and does not require prior experience in energy or technical fields. The program connects students with real-world learning opportunities focused on how energy powers Arkansas’s homes, schools, businesses, and communities. Through November 2026, participants will attend select industry and community events, connect with professionals working in energy-related fields, tour facilities, and share what they learn through creative reflection projects and social media engagement. Students will develop leadership and communication skills while gaining exposure to careers and opportunities across Arkansas’s energy economy.

At the conclusion of the program, the students will be awarded up to $5,000 total in scholarships. Award recipients will be recognized at the emPOWER Arkansas Annual Conference & Expo, scheduled for October 12 and October 13 at the Central Arkansas Library Main Branch in downtown Little Rock.

Find more information about Arkansas Advanced Energy’s Power Players Program online: https://www.arkansasadvancedenergyfoundation.org/power-player.