Applications open November 2025 with a February 2026 deadline. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated.

PAE Diversity in Engineering Scholarship

PAE Living Building in Portland, Oregon
Renewable $5,000 scholarship for undergraduate students marginalized by ethnicity and/or gender, pursuing engineering with a passion for climate justice at an accredited 4-year university in the United States

The PAE Diversity in Engineering Scholarship was established in 2024 in partnership with PAE. PAE envisions a future with clean air, energy, and water for all. They are committed to supporting the next generation of diverse professional engineers focused on climate justice.

Through this scholarship, PAE is working to increase racial and gender diversity within the engineering profession. Scholarship funds are intended to offset direct educational costs and allow students to focus on achieving their academic goals in engineering. Awardees are invited to build relationships with PAE and AFO’s community of building and design professionals and will receive opportunities for career support and mentorship.

PAE and AFO encourage engineering students of marginalized ethnicities and genders to apply for this renewable, multi-year award. Strong candidates include students with a passion for climate action and a desire to impact communities through engineering.

Eligibility & Requirements

Eligibility for 2025 Award
    • Identify as a person of a marginalized ethnicity and/or gender including Black, Indigenous, person of color, women, trans, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming
    • Incoming freshman, transfer, and/or undergraduate student pursuing a 4-year degree at a U.S. college or university for the 2025-26 school year
    • Pursuing an accredited degree in engineering: mechanical, electrical, renewable energy, or architectural
    • Desire to use climate action and engineering to make a positive impact
Application Requirements

Please submit the following through our AFO Scholarship application form:

  • 500-word (maximum) essay: Describe why equity and inclusion in engineering is important and how you will use your degree to support climate justice.
  • FAFSA Submission Summary including your Student Aid Index (SAI). How to access your FAFSA Submission Summary.
  • If you are selected as a finalist, you will be asked to submit proof of enrollment in an accredited 4-year university in the U.S. Proof of enrollment must be submitted by May 11, 2025. Please contact candice@af-oregon.org with any questions or concerns about proof of enrollment requirements.
      • Documentation examples
          • Copy of transcript showing degree program
          • Email confirmation showing proof of enrollment or intent to register for classes
          • Enrollment verification letter
          • Student ID card
          • Course schedule for Fall 2025
          • Tuition payment receipt

If you are not able to submit your application electronically, please print and mail it to AFO, PO Box 40230, Portland, OR 97240. We will accept mailed applications postmarked by the deadline.

Selection Criteria

Join AFO at a Scholarship Workshop to learn more about how to prepare a successful application. See more information below.

The criteria for AFO Scholarships includes a consideration for need, although need is not a prerequisite. Previous applicants who have not received an award are welcomed and encouraged to reapply.

Award Notification

Applications are evaluated by a committee of AFO and PAE representatives. Applicants will be notified of the selection committee’s decision in April. Finalists will be selected at that time and asked to submit proof of college enrollment. An official scholarship recipient will be selected and notified in May.

Scholarship recipients are asked to attend our annual AFO Scholars Reception to receive their awards in the Spring. The event is attended by members of the architecture, engineering, construction, and design community from across the state and celebrates the hard work and accomplishments of the Scholars.

The 2025 deadline has passed. Subscribe to our newsletter to get notified when applications open in November.

Questions?

Contact:
Candice Agahan
Director of Community Engagement
candice@af-oregon.org
503-542-3823

Scholarship Workshops & Resources

During our info sessions and workshops we cover eligibility, the application process, and how to prepare a successful application. Attendees will receive tips and feedback on scholarship essays, portfolios/work samples, and more. Info sessions and workshops are free and open to eligible scholarship candidates.

2026 workshops will be announced December 2025. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated.

2025 Virtual Info Session Recording

Additional Resources

What Makes a Successful Application?

Explore more AFO Scholarships

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