Unlock Your Potential: Apply for the Energy Leadership Accelerator (ELA) Program

This unique initiative invests in local leaders committed to implementing emerging energy technology projects in remote, islanded communities. Our goal is to foster local workforce development and create resilient energy futures.

Who We Are

At ELA, we empower local leaders to envision and execute emerging energy technology projects in remote, islanded communities. Our program is backed by funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), providing inclusive experiential learning opportunities that equip diverse learners with the skills needed to thrive in emerging technology fields.

How to Bring Your Energy Initiatives to ELA

We are inviting local leaders to propose innovative projects such as:

• Implementing emerging energy technologies in your community.
• Analyzing financing models for local energy projects.
• Developing engagement strategies to navigate complex energy regulations.
• Envisioning operations and maintenance roles for sustainable energy solutions.

Who Should Apply?

You may be an ideal candidate for the ELA program if you:

• Are from remote, islanded U.S. communities, including Alaska, Hawai’i, Puerto Rico, and US territories in the Caribbean and the Pacific
• Show entrepreneurship and openness to innovation
• Can influence action related to energy and regional economies
• Have a clear vision for a community energy initiative
• Face barriers in accessing professional development or networking opportunities
• Operate at the intersection of strategy and implementation, necessitating a skilled, localized workforce

Program Benefits

From January to June 2025, ELA offers a six-month virtual learning experience, culminating in a two-week in-person learning opportunity in Alaska from April 28–May 9, 2025.

Program Components:

• Virtual Learning: Six months of community building, targeted learning, and experience sharing.
• Alaska Leadership Lab: Contextualize your learning through renewable energy site visits and discussions with community leaders.
• Capstone Project: Address a specific real need while applying your learnings in real-time.
• Peer Network: Collaborate with participants from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Leadership Development: Cultivate and practice leadership skills to implement community projects successfully.

Upcoming Information Sessions

Join us for two virtual Information Sessions, where we will provide an overview of the program and answer any questions you may have. Registration links are as follows:

• October 8, 2024: 10–11 AM AKT / 2–3 PM ET
  Register Here

• October 22, 2024: 10–11 AM AKT / 2–3 PM ET
  Register Here

For inquiries, feel free to reach out to:

• Pintian Chen at pchen@rmi.org (For Caribbean and Pacific candidates)
• Annalise Klein at asklein@alaska.edu (For Alaska candidates)

Application

Deadline:  by 11:59 PM AKT on October 31, 2024

Apply here.