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Event marks the start of a three-year initiative to inspire the next generation of energy leaders in the UK
STAFFORDSHIRE, UK – October 22, 2026 – The GE Vernova Foundation today celebrated the official launch of Engineers of Change in Staffordshire, with the first students beginning programming this week. The launch event brought together GE Vernova leadership, local officials, and community partners to highlight the programme’s role in creating a pipeline for future innovators who will build a more sustainable energy future.
First announced in April 2026, Engineers of Change is a three-year, $4.5 million initiative in two locations – Staffordshire, UK, and Greenville, South Carolina, U.S. In Staffordshire alone, the programme aims to reach 3,000 students. By bringing engineering to life through hands-on learning, real-world design challenges, and direct mentorship from industry professionals, the programme aims to ignite curiosity and confidence in students ages 13–18.
“Meeting the world’s growing energy needs will require not only breakthrough technology, but people — bold thinkers, problem-solvers, and next-generation leaders,” said Kristin Carvell, President, GE Vernova Foundation and Chief Communications Officer, GE Vernova. “Our goal with Engineers of Change is to teach young people in Staffordshire more about this exciting career path and the purpose and impact that comes along with it and inspire them to pursue a career in engineering.”
The programme delivers two core experiences:
- Engineering Spark: Introduces students ages 13–14 to engineering through dynamic, hands-on learning led by GE Vernova volunteers.
- Engineering Catalyst: An immersive, two-year programme for students ages 15–18 featuring design challenges and career readiness workshops designed to equip students with the skills to pursue engineering. Students who complete the programme and enrol in an eligible engineering degree or apprenticeship will receive a partial scholarship from the GE Vernova Foundation.
“Nothing shapes a career like early, hands-on exposure to real-world work,” said Martin McCluskey, Minister for Local Energy and Jobs. “Through its Engineers of Change programme, the GE Vernova Foundation will help young people access the hundreds of thousands of clean energy jobs being created across the country.”
With more than 130 years of history in the UK, GE Vernova operates three electrification manufacturing sites in Staffordshire, including the country’s only large-scale grid manufacturing facility. GE Vernova is making significant investments in the area to expand capacity and reinforce Staffordshire’s role as a critical hub for the production of electrification technologies.
Engineers of Change is delivered in collaboration with the Staffordshire-based The Inspirational Learning Group and the global nonprofit FHI 360, ensuring that programming is aligned with local workforce needs. Through this collaboration, the GE Vernova Foundation continues to put its purpose, The Energy to Change the World, into practice.
“We’re delighted to work with the GE Vernova Foundation to inspire the next generation of engineers in Staffordshire,” said Ben Dyer, Co-Founder, The Inspirational Learning Group. “This programme gives young people a fantastic opportunity to experience engineering first-hand, learn directly from industry professionals and develop the skills and confidence to explore future careers in the energy sector.”
Learn more about Engineers of Change.
About GE Vernova Foundation
The GE Vernova Foundation, an independent charitable organisation funded by GE Vernova, puts the company’s purpose – The Energy to Change the World – into practice across the global communities where employees live and work. Building on the 100+ year legacy of the GE Foundation, the GE Vernova Foundation is prioritising employees through programmes such as Matching Gifts and STAR Awards. The Foundation’s resources are also channelled into initiatives focused on championing the global workforce needed for the energy transition as well as building stronger and more resilient communities.
About GE Vernova
GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) is a purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Electrification and Wind segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world’s challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonise it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with approximately 85,000 employees across approximately 100 countries around the world. Supported by the Company’s purpose, The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova technology helps deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future.
About FHI 360
FHI360 is a global organisation that mobilises research, resources and relationships so people everywhere have access to the opportunities they need to lead full and healthy lives. With collaborations in over 60 countries, we work directly with local leaders to improve health and well-being, respond to humanitarian crises and strengthen community resilience. We share data-driven insights and scalable tools so communities can effectively address complex challenges and achieve thriving futures.
About The Inspirational Learning Group
The Inspirational Learning Group (TILG) is a Staffordshire-based organisation dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people for their future careers. Working in partnership with leading employers, schools and colleges across the UK, TILG develops and delivers innovative careers and enterprise education programmes that connect classroom learning with the world of work. Through initiatives including The National Careers Challenge, in partnership with NatWest Thrive, Lightbulb Online and bespoke employer-led experiences, TILG has reached hundreds of thousands of young people, helping them develop essential skills, build confidence and explore future career opportunities. With a growing network of employer partners, TILG is committed to bridging the gap between education and industry, opening doors to new opportunities and helping young people realise their potential in the world of work.
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