NORTHERN CALIFORNIA –  As part of its ongoing dedication to education and powering California’s future, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) announced the launch of its third annual PG&E Bright Minds Scholarship program. PG&E will award scholarships to enable high school, college and vocational students to complete their higher education paths.

The scholarships are also available to individuals who are not currently students, but who are interested in returning to school.

Bright Minds scholarship winners will receive scholarships of up to $20,000 per year for up to five years; program finalists will receive $2,000 towards their studies.

“PG&E has provided nearly $60 million towards educational initiatives over the last decade, and we are proud to continue supporting the educational goals of students as part of our commitment to support the communities where we live and work,” said Ezra Garrett, vice president of community relations and chief sustainability officer for PG&E. “By awarding scholarships to accomplished students, PG&E is creating opportunities for today’s students to reach their full potential tomorrow.”

The PG&E Bright Minds scholarships will be awarded based on a combined demonstration of community leadership, personal triumph, financial need and academic achievement.

All majors are eligible, with preference given to students majoring in engineering and other science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) studies.

Eligible students will be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program at an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school for the duration of the 2014-15 academic year.

“As a 2013 PG&E Bright Minds Scholarship recipient, I am able to fully focus my attention on my studies, which is helping me achieve my educational goals,” said Carlos Corona. “As I start my junior year at Fresno State, I am incredibly grateful to PG&E for supporting me and turning my higher education aspirations into a reality.”

The deadline for applying for the PG&E Bright Minds Scholarship is February 28, 2014. For more information and to apply, visit www.pge.com/brightminds. Scholarship winners will be announced in the spring.

For video of last year’s winners and the surprise announcements, visit PG&E Currents at http://www.pgecurrents.com/video/pge-honors-some-of-californias-brightest-minds-with-scholarships/ .