The People Powering What’s Next
Each summer, LevelTen Energy welcomes a group of outstanding undergraduate students into our Energy Scholars Program. These Scholars spend 10 weeks immersed in the world of renewable energy — working alongside our team, building technical skills, and exploring career paths in sustainability.
Throughout the summer, Scholars attend educational sessions led by LevelTen and our partners, receive one-on-one mentorship, and connect with professionals across the clean energy industry. Each Scholar takes on meaningful, real-world projects as part of a paid internship designed to build both confidence and experience.
To make the program as accessible as possible, we provide housing through the University of Washington, travel accommodations, and a support system that helps students thrive professionally and personally.
This year, their stories feel especially meaningful. In a time of uncertainty across the industry, these Scholars remind us why this work matters — and why we must keep investing in the people who will carry it forward. Whether you're a future employer, mentor, or fellow changemaker, we hope you’ll see in them the same spark that inspires us to keep going.
Energy Scholar Spotlight: Calcea Johnson
Louisiana State University’s Ogden Honors College | Environmental Engineering
Class of 2027
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Tell us a little about yourself, Calcea.
I’m a leader focused on uplifting communities in need, which has led me to earn both a Girl Scout Gold Award and the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. My passion for helping others, combined with a love of STEM, is what drives me to excel as a future environmental engineer.
Why are you passionate about sustainability and clean energy?
I care deeply about sustainability because unsustainable energy production is one of the biggest contributors to the degradation of our planet. I’m fascinated by the growing variety of renewable energy sources, and they give me real hope for our future.
What’s a favorite project you’ve worked on as a student?
One of my favorite projects was co-authoring a mathematical academic paper and getting it published. It was a challenging experience that taught me the value of perseverance, especially when things felt uncertain.
How does this project demonstrate how you think and what you bring to a team?
It shows that I approach problems both critically and creatively. I contribute not just STEM knowledge, but also strong communication skills - especially when it comes to writing about and explaining technical projects.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve heard is to not let other people define you. A lot of people will want you to fit into a box, but you contain multitudes. Always choose to be yourself.
Thanks, Calcea!
We’re honored to support each of our Scholars on their clean energy journey and excited to see the impact they’ll make in the years ahead.
Connect with Calcea Johnson on LinkedIn to follow their journey or learn more about the Energy Scholars Program.
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