A promising future for our communities is directly tied to a highly skilled and educated workforce. It is imperative that we give students a strong foundation to be equipped for the jobs of tomorrow. We focus our efforts on motivating students to be prepared for higher education, promoting technology-based learning and encouraging success in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Our global economy requires students to not only have a quality education, but also a strong understanding in STEM.
Some of the organizations/projects we supported in 2023:
USC Viterbi Energy of STEM Summer Camp
In partnership with USC Viterbi School of Engineering, more than 65 SoCalGas employees hosted the annual Energy of STEM summer camp. The program promotes better understanding and knowledge surrounding science, technology, engineering, and math. The camp is open to the public, emphasizing low-income and minority middle and high school students. Over 75 students had the opportunity to explore hands-on activities in aerodynamics, physics, coding, green energy, electronics, and more during the week-long free summer camp. The classes were led by SoCalGas engineers and assisted by USC Viterbi K-12 STEM center staff and USC undergraduates.
Building Industry Association of Southern California (BIASC)
In 2023, SoCalGas was the lead sponsor for the Building Industry Association of Southern California’s Junior Builder camp. They were hosted at the SoCalGas Energy Resource Center in Downey, the 3-day camp aimed to inspire the “Next Generation of Builders” by providing 30 junior builders between the ages of 9-14 the opportunity to experience multiple disciplines within the homebuilding industry, including construction, architecture, and engineering. The campers were selected by local youth organizations, including STEAM:CODERS, YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, and Boys & Girls Club of Whittier. Over three days, the students toured the SoCalGas Hydrogen Innovation Experience, attended a guided field trip to Toll Brother’s new construction site in Metro Heights, and designed their own home. Students received awards for their home designs, were recognized by local city officials, and enjoyed a celebratory BBQ on the patio of the H2IE.
TELACU Education Foundation
For many years, our sponsorship has helped to ensure that students’ progress on the Foundation's Continuum of Education, attain at minimum a bachelor’s degree and become our nation's next generation of leaders. TELACU Scholars have built a stellar legacy of excellence: historically 99% of their high school students graduate, and almost without exception pursue post-secondary education; and 99% of their college students attain at minimum, a bachelor’s degree, with a number pursuing graduate degrees.