San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) announced the winners of the 2024 Inspiring Future Leaders (IFL) grant cycle to continue developing the next generation’s innovative and diverse STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) workforce. Priority was given to K-16 STEM programs that focus on serving historically underrepresented populations, college programs with an emphasis on STEM pathways, and after-school activations centered around STEM curriculum. After extensive deliberation of the 85 applications received, 58 projects were selected for funding with 100% of the selected organizations serving diverse communities.  

SDG&E launched its Inspiring Future Leaders (IFL) giving initiative in 2011 to bridge equity gaps and improve access to STEM education. Since the initiative’s inception, SDG&E has invested nearly $18 million of shareholder funds to support 501c3 nonprofit organizations that have pushed forward the dreams of first-generation college students, engaged more children in STEM learning opportunities, and driven community success and inclusion. 

Some of the grantees have an emphasis on supporting young girls and women in underrepresented spaces in alignment with SDG&E’s #BeThatGirl initiative. Our Genetic Legacy (OGL), a new grantee to SDG&E’s network of community partners, was awarded funding to support their summer drone pilot training program, specifically designed for BIPOC teen girls. This dynamic program delivers a comprehensive understanding of drone technology, FAA regulations, and essential skills crucial for a career in the drone industry. In addition to the technical training, these girls will also delve into the history of people of color in an effort to preserve historic family legacies that may have been overlooked. 

“As an FAA certified drone pilot on our Aviation Services team, I’m so excited to see Our Genetic Legacy (OGL) brought into the SDG&E network of community partners,” said Christine Asaro, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Operations Advisor at SDG&E. “The career paths in this area are growing exponentially, so we need community partners like OGL to prepare our next generation for these opportunities – specifically, our next generation of women pilots!” 

A returning grantee receiving SDG&E funding is the Fleet Science Center in support of their SciTech program that engages 4th-6th grade girls and nonbinary youth from Title I schools with project-based learning, hands-on activities and culminates in a capstone competition challenge at the Fleet. SciTech has proven to be so popular that the Fleet is doubling the number of cohorts offered this year to accommodate the long waiting list of schools hoping to participate.  

Whether it’s through new partnerships like OGL or a returning fan-favorite like SciTech, SDG&E hopes to continue inspiring local youth and partnering with organizations across San Diego to build a better future for all. 

To learn more about Inspiring Future Leaders visit, Community - Inspiring Future Leaders | San Diego Gas & Electric (sdge.com).