PATASKALA — Future leaders in the natural gas and oil industry have a chance to secure financial backing for their education as the Ohio Natural Energy Foundation officially opens its 2026 scholarship application period.

This annual initiative aims to support students who are dedicated to pursuing careers in an essential field that powers the state, offering a scholarship worth $1,500 per year with the potential for four years of total eligibility.

To qualify for the award, applicants must be U.S. citizens and residents of Ohio, or alternatively, be a student planning to attend or currently enrolled in an accredited Ohio college, university, technical, or trade school.

Beyond residency, the foundation seeks individuals with a clear career goal within the natural gas and oil industry who can maintain a grade point average of 2.5 or higher.

Bruce Tague, executive director of the Ohio Natural Energy Institute and Foundation, noted the industry’s future rests in the hands of these aspiring professionals, stating the next generation will play a critical role in the field and that the foundation is proud to support those with such vital career ambitions.

The path to securing the scholarship involves a comprehensive application process where students must submit letters of recommendation, a professional resume and an official transcript by the March 1 deadline.

Each submission undergoes a thorough evaluation and scoring process by a review committee to ensure the most qualified candidates are selected.

This commitment to educational investment is nothing new for the organization. Since 2007, the foundation has awarded 736 scholarships totaling $760,000 to 448 students representing 75 different counties across Ohio.

The scholarship program is just one facet of the Ohio Natural Energy Institute’s broader mission to provide trusted, factual information about the energy production that enhances daily life. Comprised of industry professionals, the institute works within communities and classrooms to offer teacher workshops, first responder training and guest speaker programs.

Those interested in applying for the 2026 cycle or seeking information on the criteria, are encouraged to visit the foundation’s website at ohionaturalenergy.org/scholarships, or engage with the organization through their social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.