Woodside Contributes $300,000 to Support STEM Education

Barchart · 10/17 10:16

Woodside Energy will launch a $300,000 two-year partnership with Friends of Energy Institute in support of Energy Institute High School. This is one of the largest donations to date in support of the Houston Independent School District (HISD) magnet school.

"Our collaboration with Friends of Energy Institute reflects our commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators and leaders in the community,” said Woodside Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer International Daniel Kalms.

“Through this partnership, we aim to inspire and support students as they explore and excel in the fields of energy and STEM."

Woodside’s contribution will support the VEX and First Robotics Competition Clubs, health and wellness initiatives, lab supplies, and state-of-the-art equipment for the science labs and makerspace, where the students come together to create, problem solve and learn.

Energy Institute High School was established in 2013 as the first high school in the nation to offer a STEM-focused curriculum taught completely through project-based learning. The school aims to connect Houston ISD students to Houston’s thriving energy community. Students receive four years of dedicated engineering coursework and have the ability to apply that learning through community exhibitions, robotics programs, local engineering competitions, and internships with corporate partners.

Principal and founder Lori Lambropoplous said: “I am deeply grateful for the generous donation from Woodside Energy. They are investing in the energy leaders of tomorrow. This contribution will not only elevate the academic experiences of our students but also empower them with hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for future careers in STEM fields. We are excited to see the lasting impact of this partnership on our students and community.”

Woodside’s donation will be administered through Friends of Energy Institute, a 501(c)3 non-profit created in 2020 by former Energy Institute teachers and community leaders working in energy and STEM fields to enhance the educational, professional, and STEM opportunities for students and teachers at the school.

About Woodside Energy

Woodside Energy is a global energy company, founded in Australia, working across three continents to produce oil and natural gas and pursue new energy opportunities.