GE Vernova Foundation Celebrates Official Launch of ‘Engineers of Change’ Program in Greenville
Event marks the start of a three-year initiative to inspire the next generation of energy leaders in the Upstate
The GE Vernova Foundation celebrated the official launch of Engineers of Change in Greenville, with the first students beginning programming this fall. The launch event brought together GE Vernova leadership, local government officials, Clemson University partners, and community leaders to highlight the program’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 – Greenville, South Carolina and Staffordshire, UK. In Greenville alone, the program 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 program 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 Greenville 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 launch event at the Advanced Manufacturing Works (AMW) facility featured a panel discussion with industry experts and educators, as well as live engineering demonstrations.
The program focuses on two core components:
- Engineering Spark: Introduces students ages 13–14 to foundational engineering concepts through dynamic, hands-on learning.
- Engineering Catalyst: An immersive, two-year program for students ages 15–18 featuring design challenges and career readiness workshops designed to equip students with the skills to pursue engineering.
“The GE Vernova Foundation has been a dedicated partner in expanding opportunity and connecting education to the workforce needs of our communities,” said linkedin.com/in/benjamin-ayers-94395335, President of Clemson University. “Engineers of Change puts that partnership into action by giving young people in the Upstate hands-on experiences, mentorship and a clear view of the opportunities available to them in engineering and energy. We are grateful for the GE Vernova Foundation’s continued investment and, as the program’s first university partner in the United States, proud that Clemson is helping prepare the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.”
Engineers of Change is delivered in collaboration with Clemson University’s PEER program 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 are proud to see Engineers of Change take root here in Greenville,” said Mayor Knox White. “This partnership creates a unique pathway for our students, providing them with the practical skills and encouragement to pursue engineering as a mission-driven career that can change the world.”
GE Vernova and the GE Vernova Foundation continue to invest heavily in the future of Greenville, driving impact through both education and community-building. Since 2021, the company and the Foundation have together granted nearly 300 scholarships—including the John Lammas Annual Scholarship for engineering students and GE Vernova STAR Scholarships supporting employees’ children—while also funding skilled trades and technical programs, such as granting $100,000 for Future of Energy Skills scholarships in Greenville.
Additionally, the 2026 opening of the GE Vernova Park in Greenville marked a major milestone in creating vibrant, connected communities. Serving as the home pitch for Greenville Triumph SC and Greenville Liberty SC, the venue welcomed over 45,000 fans in its inaugural season while doubling as a year-round hub for soccer clinics, yoga, and World Cup watch parties. Through shared volunteer efforts like Hands On Greenville Day and programs like the Triumph’s “Read to Score” initiative—which rewarded 2,703 students for literacy—GE Vernova is proud to invest in the social, physical, and educational well-being of the Upstate region.
Learn more about Engineers of Change.
About GE Vernova Foundation
The GE Vernova Foundation, an independent charitable organization 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 prioritizing employees through programs such as Matching Gifts and STAR Awards. The Foundation’s resources are also channeled 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 decarbonize 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 organization that mobilizes 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 Clemson University
Clemson University is a public, land-grant-ranked research university located in Upstate South Carolina. Established in 1889, Clemson is dedicated to teaching, research and public service—serving as a catalyst for economic growth, scientific discovery, and
student development. The university comprises nine colleges offering a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs within a vibrant campus community.
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