Epic Scholars

Develop the Skills to Lead the Future of Energy

The EPIC Scholars Program is a professional development experience designed to prepare engineering students for success in the energy and power industry. Through a year-long cohort experience, students will strengthen essential career skills including communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving while gaining a deeper understanding of the energy sector.

Selected students will connect with industry professionals, participate in career-building experiences, and develop meaningful relationships with peers, faculty, and industry mentors.

What You'll Gain

As an EPIC Scholar, you will:

Build professional skills employers value through interactive development sessions.
Gain insight into careers and opportunities in the energy and power industry.
Connect with engineers and industry leaders through networking events and mentorship.
Develop a professional network that supports your future career goals.

Scholarship Opportunity

Active participants will have the opportunity to earn one of three $1,000 scholarship awards by fully engaging in the program.

More information will be shared during the EPIC Scholars Information Session on April 15.

Eligibility

The EPIC Scholars Program is open to UNC Charlotte College of Engineering undergraduate students who:

Are enrolled in an energy concentration or have a demonstrated interest in the energy and power sector through coursework, internships, research, or previous EPIC involvement.
Are a sophomore, junior, or senior (seniors must graduate in Spring 2027 or later).

Program Experience

EPIC Scholars participate in a combination of professional development, industry engagement, and mentorship opportunities throughout the academic year.

Professional Development Series

Students will complete a series of professional development modules focused on skills needed for engineering careers, including:

Communication and teamwork
Leadership development
Interview preparation
Networking strategies
Self-awareness and professional growth

Session Details

Location: EPIC 1332
Schedule: Third Thursday of each month, 11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m.
Additional out-of-class activities may be required.

Career-Building Sessions

Students will participate in industry-focused sessions designed to provide insight into energy careers and employer expectations.

Requirements

Two career-building panel sessions

One Lunch & Learn session

Topics may include:

Benefits of a Career in Energy
Opportunities in Asset Management
Grid Technology and Manufacturing Careers
Additional industry-focused topics

Industry Mentorship Program

Each EPIC Scholar will be paired with an engineering professional who will provide career guidance and industry insight.

Mentorship Expectations

One-hour program information session in early September
Approximately one hour per month meeting with your mentor (virtual or in person)
Welcome and program kickoff reception in September
End-of-program closing reception in April

Events & Dates

To apply for the program please complete the application form, upload your resume, transcripts, a short (up to 1.5 minute) video introducing yourself and expressing why you would like to participate in the program and describing your interests in the power and energy sector, and complete the short writing sample requested in the application. Application deadline: August 30, 2026

Apply Here

Session / Event	Dates
EPIC Scholars Program Sessions	09/17/26, 10/15/26, 11/5/26, 11/19/26, 1/21/27, 1/28/27, 2/18/27, 3/18/27, 4/15/27
Career-Building Panels	9/10/26, 10/29/26, 2/11/27, 4/1/27
Lunch & Learns	9/1/26, 9/15/26, 10/6/26, 10/20/26, 11/3/26, 11/10/26, 2/2/27, 2/16/27, 3/2/27, 4/6/27
Mentorship Program Receptions	9/27/26, 4/22/27

Information Session: April 15, 2026, 2:00-3:00 PM, EPIC 1332 (atrium conference room)

Download Slides