Earthrise Energy Supports Workforce Development with $15,000 Grant to Leaders Innovating for Tomorrow (LIFT) in Mattoon, IL

Grant to Fund Scholarships for Career Training and Educational Programs.

Earthrise Energy has awarded a $15,000 grant to Leaders Innovating for Tomorrow (LIFT) in Mattoon, Illinois, to support career training and workforce development programs for local students. This funding will help expand hands-on learning opportunities, equipping students with essential skills in high-demand industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

“At LIFT, we are dedicated to preparing students for success in the workforce by providing hands-on, real-world learning experiences,” said McLain Schaefer, Director of LIFT. “This grant from Earthrise Energy will enable more students to join our programming, receive certifications, and ensure access to the tools and training needed to build meaningful careers.”

LIFT serves high school students providing them with state-of-the-art facilities and industry-aligned coursework to prepare them for the evolving job market. With Earthrise Energy’s support, the organization will be able to provide additional scholarships to students across the 28 different high schools in the region.

“Investing in workforce development is key to building strong communities,” said Nicole Vaughn, Senior Project Development Manager at Earthrise Energy. “As we continue to grow our operations in Illinois, we recognize the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills and resources they need to thrive, and we are proud to support LIFT’s mission.”

Earthrise Energy, an independent power producer, owns five natural gas peaker plants in Illinois and is developing more than 1.5 gigawatts of solar power in the state, including the 150 MW Northwest Solar Project recently approved by the Cumberland County Board. Through its RISE Grant program, Earthrise Energy has committed over $180,000 in grants, sponsorships, and community initiatives, supporting local education, workforce development, and environmental stewardship in the Shelby, Coles, and Cumberland areas.

For more information on Leaders Innovating for Tomorrow (LIFT) and its programs, visit: https://mcusd2.org/lift