Northern Illinois University is helping shape the next generation of energy leaders through an innovative partnership with the Institute of International Education (IIE) and the Exelon Foundation.
This summer, the IIE Global Scholars Program Powered by the Exelon Foundation brought together 17 undergraduate students from colleges and universities across the U.S., including NIU, to explore sustainability, energy systems and workforce development through academic coursework and immersive experiences in Chicago and the Netherlands.
The students, all interns with Exelon or one of its operating companies, examined issues ranging from climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure to energy governance and community engagement. Students gained valuable knowledge, learning directly from leaders in industry, government, research institutions and nonprofit organizations.
“This partnership demonstrates how NIU provides high-quality global learning opportunities for our students, while being recognized as a leader in designing innovative international education programs that address workforce needs and complex global challenges,” Lauren Mock, director of Study Abroad said.
The program began in Chicago, where students examined regional energy innovation and sustainability efforts. Students met with Exelon leaders to discuss grid modernization, decarbonization and workforce development. They also visited the ComEd Bronzeville Community Microgrid and Argonne National Laboratory, gaining firsthand insight into emerging technologies and research shaping the future of the energy sector.
The interactive discussions with energy professionals, researchers and policymakers helped students better understand the challenges and opportunities facing communities as they transition to more sustainable energy systems.
The international portion of the program provided the students with additional perspective on sustainability and energy policy. While in the Netherlands, students engaged with faculty and researchers at TU Delft, experts from Deltares and officials from the Dutch Ministry of Climate Policy and Green Growth. They also met with municipal and community leaders, representatives from the Port of Rotterdam and organizations advancing sustainable housing initiatives.
The international experience offered insights into how different countries approach energy transition, climate adaptation and sustainable development, while highlighting the importance of international collaboration in addressing shared global challenges.
Post-program assessments showed growth in students’ global awareness, intercultural understanding, adaptability and career readiness. Participants also reported a stronger understanding of energy and sustainability challenges and a greater ability to connect international experiences with their future professional goals.
As industries and communities worldwide work to address climate and energy challenges, the IIE Global Scholars Program serves as a model for how universities, industry partners and international organizations can work together to prepare future leaders for an increasingly interconnected world.
