How Chevron Is Preparing Students To Innovate and Lead in the Industry By Arikka Von Representative, Chevron Corporate Affairs Fueling Utah’s Future Energy Workforce Many kids aspire to be YouTube stars, professional gamers, athletes or doctors. A career in energy might not top their lists, but our industry offers countless opportunities for success. UPA member companies are active with their support of innovative educational and training programs that develop leaders and enhance industry employment pathways. For example, Chevron is reaching Utah students through several programs that equip them for a future in the energy workforce. “Chevron believes in building the STEM and trade skills of students because they will not only be tomorrow’s energy workers, but they will also be the innovators we need,” said Troy Tortorich, Chevron Salt Lake Refinery manager. Supporting Energy Education In partnership with the Utah Office of Energy Development, the Chevron Refinery has provided college scholarships to over 100 Utah students pursuing STEM careers. This Energy Pathways Scholarship has helped students around the state achieve their educational goals since the program began in 2016. And in the Davis School District, Chevron sponsors the annual STEM Fair, where refinery employees join the fun by serving as judges. Over the years, Chevron has also sent 120 Davis School District students to the International Science and Engineering Fair — resulting in scholarships, internship opportunities and irreplaceable experiences for those who participate. Inspiring Innovative Outreach Chevron values new ways of thinking and is proud to support teachers when they develop new programming ideas, like the first Tech-Hers Jr. event held at the Davis Catalyst Center last year. The conference inspired girls in fifth through eighth grade to keep pursuing their STEM interests. At this year’s Tech-Hers Jr., Chevron’s Environmental Lead Lauren Vander Werff and Value Chain Analyst Celia Guiterrez joined a panel of women leading in technology careers. They showed young girls in the audience what opportunities are available in their futures. “My motto is, ‘if you can’t see it, you can’t be it.’ I think leaders in the energy sector have a responsibility to role model career pathways like this, and I really appreciated the chance to participate in such a unique learning event,” said Vander Werff, who 10 UPDATE
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