The North Dakota Petroleum Foundation is now accepting applications for its Al Golden Scholarship program for the 2021-2022 school year, according to information provided by the organization. The NDPF will award up to nine $2,000 scholarships to students pursuing degrees or training in an energy-related field.

“The oil and natural gas are dependable energy resources that are vital to our quality of life and are a significant contributor to our state and national economies,” said Tessa Sandstrom, Executive Director for the North Dakota Petroleum Foundation. “The industry requires a skilled, educated and knowledgeable workforce to provide that energy resource to our homes and businesses. The Bakken is a multigenerational play, and we will need these future energy leaders to help us create the new technologies and methods for recovering petroleum right here in North Dakota for the benefit of our state and national economy and energy security.”

Al Golden Scholars are selected based on academic achievement, work or internship experience in the oil and natural gas industry or a demonstrated commitment to a qualified area of study. Students must be attending a North Dakota college or university and remain a full-time student for the fall semester of 2021 and spring semester of 2022.

To be eligible, applicants must be full-time students who have a 3.0 GPA or higher and are pursuing a post-secondary education in geology, engineering, science, processing plant technology, and other technical skills or trades related to energy development or processing. In addition, applicants must also have completed one of the following: at least six months of work and/or internship experience in the oil and gas industry, and/or, at least 12 hours in geology, earth science, geological/petroleum engineering, chemistry, math, or safety.

Applications must be submitted or postmarked by June 1. To apply, visit www.NDPetroleumFoundation. org/programs/al-golden-scholarship/.