When Pepco launched the HBCU Power Partnership initiative, we made a bold commitment to reimagine how corporate America invests in higher education. With significant annual support for Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), we’re not simply providing scholarships — we’re building a diverse energy workforce to power the nation’s future.
Two Universities, One Vision
Each university brings unique strengths to the partnership. Howard University, with its renowned engineering programs and nationally ranked law school, produces the technical leaders and policymakers shaping tomorrow’s energy landscape. University of the District of Columbia, serving many first-generation students from East of the Anacostia River, creates pathways into STEM careers and trains the hands-on professionals who keep our grid running.
Together, these collaborations form a comprehensive talent pipeline — from community-based programs to advanced research — ensuring the energy sector benefits from the full spectrum of talent in our region.
The Pepco Power Scholars Program: Building Careers Across Campuses
At both universities, the Power Scholars Program transforms scholarships into career-building journeys. Beyond providing financial support, these scholars gain hands-on experience as summer interns, working on projects that directly impact customers and communities. From analyzing energy usage to supporting infrastructure planning, they graduate with degrees, years of professional experience, and networks of mentors dedicated to their success.
Innovation and Research Excellence at Howard University
Howard serves as an innovation hub for the partnership. Through the Vertically Integrated Projects Program, students earn academic credit while tackling long-term, faculty-led research that addresses real industry challenges.
Our Clean Energy Fellowships stand out as a flagship investment. Fellows explore energy justice, decarbonization, and smart grid technologies — the breakthroughs that will define the sector’s future. We’re also advancing research through Howard’s Center for Energy Systems and Control, preparing the next generation of grid engineers, and the new Center for Digital Business, which trains students in analytics, UX design, cybersecurity, and digital skills critical to managing tomorrow’s smart grid.
Building Infrastructure for Tomorrow
Our most ambitious investment is the UDC Pepco Power Lab, under construction at the School of Engineering. Opening in early 2026, the lab will provide hands-on training in renewable energy systems, smart grid technologies, and power generation, while supporting research from undergraduate through doctoral levels.
At Howard, we’re investing in human infrastructure through the Summer Bridge Program, a six-week immersion that helps incoming STEM students transition into rigorous coursework and build lasting academic communities.
Legal and Policy Leadership
The energy transition requires policy leadership as much as technical innovation. At Howard’s School of Law, our annual investment supports scholarships and academic success initiatives, as well as civic engagement workshops on energy law, public regulation, and environmental justice.
The students we support today will be tomorrow’s attorneys shaping renewable energy policy, advancing grid modernization, and ensuring clean energy benefits all communities.
Professional Development and Career Excellence
Both universities benefit from expanded career development opportunities. At Howard, our support for the Center for Career Excellence provides coaching, workshops, and direct employer connections. Events such as “Takeover Day” give students opportunities to showcase innovation, network with professionals, and explore career paths.
At UDC, we sponsor hallmark events like the Hall of Fame Luncheon and support scholarship galas, celebrating student achievement while strengthening professional networks.
Measurable Impact, Lasting Change
Success is measured not just in programs launched, but in careers built, innovations achieved, and communities strengthened. Walking both campuses today, we see future leaders, innovators, and professionals who will deliver reliable, affordable, and clean energy to every community we serve.
These historic partnerships reflect our belief that diversity fuels innovation — and that solving the energy challenges of tomorrow requires the full spectrum of talent, perspectives, and ideas that HBCUs provide. By investing in Howard University and UDC, Pepco is ensuring the industry benefits from world-class research and community-centered innovation alike.