Powering young minds

Dawson PPD’s Commitment to Youth Education

Investing in our future is an important pillar of Public Power. At Dawson PPD, we’re dedicated to educational opportunities for our local youth. Our goal is to spark curiosity and empower the next generation of leaders in the energy industry.

Hands-on Learning

These Dawson PPD camps go beyond textbooks and foster teamwork, problem-solving skills and critical thinking. They spark an interest in potential career paths within the energy industry.

• STEM Camp: Designed for students in grades 8-12, the STEM Camp offers a unique opportunity for hands-on learning. Kicking off its inagural year in 2024, participants jumped into the exciting world of electricity through interactive activities presented by Dawson PPD’s employees. From building a cantenna to exploring renewable energy sources, the camp explores STEM subjects and showcases their real-world applications.
• Utility Line Camp: This program, established in 2022, provides high school students with a glimpse into the world of power line maintenance. Under the guidance of Dawson PPD’s lineworkers, campers gain valuable knowledge about safety procedures, equipment operation and building power line infrastructure. The camp has already hosted more than 35 students.

Scholarship Opportunities

Dawson PPD offers two scholarship programs to deserving students who are planning a career in the energy industry.

• STEM Scholarship: This scholarship began in 2017 and is awarded annually. Applicants are pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering or math. The student or their parent/guardian must reside within Dawson PPD’s service territory footprint.
• Utility Line Scholarship: Targeted specifically for those pursuing a career in utility line, this scholarship is awarded annually to one student. The scholarship is exclusive to students or their parent/guardian living within Dawson PPD’s service territory footprint. Founded in 2001, more than 20 students have received this award.

Leadership Development

Through Dawson PPD’s membership with the Nebraska Rural Electric Association, the District sponsors students to attend two annual events.

• YELC: Dawson PPD is proud to sponsor up to three youth, grades 8-11, at the NREA Youth Energy Leadership Camp (YELC). This week-long program brings together high school students from across Nebraska, Wyoming, South Dakota, and Colorado. Participants gain valuable leadership skills, network with industry professionals and explore various aspects of the energy industry, including power generation and distribution. Attendees gain the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the ever-evolving energy landscape.
• Youth Tour: Dawson PPD also partners with NREA to send one student annually to Youth Tour in Washington D.C. About 20 students are selected statewide to represent Nebraska. Youth Tour consists of spending one week at the nation’s capital touring popular historical sites. The students meet with members of the Nebraska Congressional Delegation and join other rural high school students from across America at the annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Youth Day. The event focuses on political engagement, leadership and issues facing the electric industry today.

Safety First

Safety is key at Dawson PPD. We offer educational presentations and demonstrations using our state-of-the-art Electrical Safety Demonstration Trailer. This interactive program has reached more than 14,400 people. It is available to local schools, businesses, organizations and community groups.

Bringing Energy Education to the Classroom

In addition, Dawson PPD supports local educators by providing educational resources and presentations. These educational tools help students understand the different forms of energy, explore energy alternatives and appreciate the role Dawson PPD plays in delivering safe and reliable power to their schools, libraries and homes.

Empowering the Future

We are committed to empowering our youth to become responsible energy consumers, future leaders in the energy industry and informed citizens who can make a positive impact.

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