59 new PowerUP Scholars join Australia's future power workforce

The Australian Power Institute (The API) is excited to welcome 59 undergraduate students from across Australia into the 2026 PowerUP Scholarship Program, following their official induction on Thursday, 20 August.

Representing six states, our newest scholars are beginning a multi-year journey designed to connect their university studies with the people, organisations and opportunities shaping Australia's power sector.

Investing in the future power workforce

The power sector is undergoing significant transformation, and meeting the challenges ahead will require a strong pipeline of skilled, connected and industry-ready professionals. 

That is why The API, together with our member organisations, invests in undergraduate students early in their studies.

The PowerUP Scholarship Program is more than financial support. It helps students build industry knowledge, professional networks and practical experience while they complete their degrees, giving them a clearer understanding of the many career pathways available across the power sector.

Meet the 2026 cohort

This year, 59 new scholars have joined the program:

• New South Wales: 17

• Queensland: 11

• Victoria: 12

• Western Australia: 9

• South Australia: 7

• Tasmania: 3

  
  

We are also pleased to see strong gender diversity across the new cohort, with 26 of the 59 scholars identifying as female, representing approximately 44% of the cohort. 

Supporting a diverse future workforce is an important part of building the talent pipeline the sector will need in the years ahead.

More than a scholarship

Throughout their PowerUP journey, scholars have opportunities to learn, connect and gain experience beyond their university studies.

This can include Inside Industry webinars, the PowerUP Summit, state-based industry events, conferences, career development, outreach opportunities and connections with API member organisations.

As students progress through their degrees, the program also helps prepare them for industry placements. Eligible scholars approaching their penultimate year will have opportunities to meet and interview with API member organisations for paid industry summer placements, giving them valuable exposure to real workplaces, roles and career pathways. 

The aim is simple: to help students graduate with more than a degree, equipped with industry knowledge, professional connections, practical experience and greater confidence about where they could contribute to Australia's power future.

Welcome to PowerUP!

During this week's induction, our newest scholars were introduced to what they can expect from the program and encouraged to make the most of the opportunities ahead by getting involved, asking questions, building relationships and staying connected.

We congratulate all 59 members of our 2026 PowerUP Scholarship cohort and look forward to supporting them throughout their studies.

We also thank our API member organisations for their continued involvement and investment in developing the next generation of Australia's power workforce.

Together, we are helping students move from university to industry and building the skilled, connected and diverse workforce our sector needs for the future.