Through a grant from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation, high school and college students will have access to internships that provide workforce training.

Dayton, Ohio (May 12, 2025) – The Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) is excited to announce receiving a grant from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation to support work-based learning for all. Through this grant, the support will increase access to education for all Ohio residents.

SOCHE’s Work-Based Learning for All will provide paid work-based learning experiences across 24 counties surrounding Dayton to diverse High School students in rural, urban and suburban areas, focusing on under-resourced students and in-demand occupations. We will partner with employers and trade associations across the region who will pay 50% of student wages, while the grant covers the other 50%. Our goal is to reduce brain drain from our region as we engage students in our most in-demand industries and help them to discern their future occupations.

Cassie Barlow, PhD, SOCHE President

“At the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE), our mission to engage students is directly aligned with CenterPoint Energy Foundation’s mission to support educational programming. We are excited to continue our work to engage with educational institutions and industry to transform the economy through education and employment. That’s why this support is so vital to support or programs that positively impact our mission.”

June Deadrick, CenterPoint Energy Vice President for Community Relations

“The CenterPoint Energy Foundation is proud to support educational programs that increase access, excitement and interest in career pathways. By investing in Work-Based Learning for All, we hope to inspire more Miami Valley students to become the next generation of industry leaders through engaging in work-based learning.”

About Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE)

A leader for higher collaboration, SOCHE works with K-12 schools, colleges and universities, governments, and businesses to transform Ohio communities and economies through the education, employment, and engagement of students. SOCHE is home to SOCHEintern, the Aerospace Professional Development Center (APDC), and Defense Associated Graduate Student Innovators (DAGSI).

About the CenterPoint Energy Foundation

The CenterPoint Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where CenterPoint Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by shareholders and has no impact on customer rates. More information about the Foundation can be found at CenterPointEnergy.com/Foundation.

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