In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to enjoy the benefits of modern technology without thinking about the resources that make it all possible. After all, people don’t need to understand energy to have access to it—so why does energy and water education matter? Why are they so important?

Now more than ever, energy and water literacy are essential. While some parts of the world enjoy seemingly unlimited access to these resources, if we don’t use them responsibly, they could become scarce in the future. In some communities, the effects of wasteful energy practices are already visible. As energy demand increases alongside environmental challenges, understanding how to use the planet's resources wisely is crucial for building a sustainable future.

Education in these areas equips individuals and communities with the knowledge to make informed decisions that benefit both the environment and our quality of life. On August 23, 2024, CPS Energy and Itron, Inc. hosted the Smart Energy Education (SEE) Mixer to celebrate the success of the SEE Scholarship Program and honor the exceptional students who received scholarships. The event brought together students, industry leaders, and educators for a night of networking, knowledge-sharing, and celebration.

The event welcomed several esteemed VIP guests, including:

• Rudy Garza, CEO of CPS Energy
• Tom Deitrich, CEO of Itron, Inc.
• Dr. Michael E. Webber, The University of Texas at Austin
• Kimberly Britton, former CEO of EPIcenter

These industry leaders gathered to recognize the achievements of the scholarship recipients and to highlight the importance of energy and water education. The event was a testament to CPS Energy and Itron, Inc.'s commitment to fostering the next generation of professionals who will drive innovation in sustainability and energy conservation.

Networking and Professional Growth

The mixer provided students with a unique chance to network with other scholarship recipients, industry leaders, and key figures in the energy sector. Several students even secured internships during the event, marking the start of their careers in the energy field. Dr. Michael E. Webber, a VIP guest, highlighted the importance of the SEE program:

"Having access to the SEE Scholarships has helped many students across the Greater San Antonio area, and we congratulate and thank CPS Energy and Itron, Inc. for their commitment and partnership in supporting energy education. Thanks to this program, students from diverse backgrounds now have the opportunity to learn about energy, sustainability, and conservation, and will use this knowledge in their future careers to create a more resourceful world."

A Legacy of Support

Since 2016, the SEE Scholarship Program has awarded scholarships to more than 50 students, with over $800,000 in funding provided by CPS Energy and Itron, Inc. This initiative, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, continues to make a profound impact on the lives of students, empowering them to pursue careers in fields like energy, sustainability, and technology.

The mixer was a celebration of this ongoing success and underscored how education can serve as the foundation for a more sustainable and resourceful future.

For more inspiring stories and updates on the Smart Energy Education program, check out additional blog posts on the Smart Energy Education website!