The Institute for Energy Studies (IES) at Western Washington University stands out among energy programs in the US. Founded in 2012, it is the only program in the country to offer interdisciplinary BA and BS degrees addressing the science, technology, policy, business and economic aspects of energy systems. IES students graduate well prepared to enter the energy work force, or to pursue further studies at the graduate level.
Students visited the Ross Dam with Professor Froylan Sifuentes
Will You Help Us Leverage a $10,000 Challenge Grant?
Our 2026 Give Day goal is $20,000 to support student and faculty professional development. We have already secured a $10,000 challenge grant pledge from the parent of an IES student who loves what we do. Can you help us double that and reach our goal of $20,000 this year?
Your gift to IES advances our mission of educating the leaders for our clean and efficient energy future. Donations directly support students, faculty, and staff in the following ways:
- Scholarships, internships, and research opportunities for students
- Site visits to energy facilities across Washington
- Conference attendance and presentation opportunities
- Professional development opportunities for students, faculty, and staff
- Lunch gatherings for sharing ideas and building community
Energy Science and Technology student, Donagh Palmer, presented at the American Society of Fluid and Thermal Engineers (ASFTE) Conference
The IES academic program fills critical skill gaps in the field of energy efficiency, a growing regional business opportunity and global environmental imperative. Courses prepare students to conduct hands-on service projects such as “campus-as-a-lab” efficiency upgrades in campus buildings, as well as collaborating with cities, utilities and energy firms in the region. Students also explore solutions to balance resources as diverse as solar, wind, hydro, bio- and fossil-fuel energy with smart grids, smart buildings and plug-in vehicles.
Energy Science and Technology student, Bre Mennenoh, participated in a summer internship with McKinstryPrivate support is crucial to the success of the Institute for Energy Studies. Even modest gifts can have an outsized impact, and we welcome the opportunity to discuss larger gifts that can be truly catalytic for our work.
Please consider making your gift today to make your contribution go even further for Energy Studies students!
Thank You!!
