MT. VERNON, IL — At Tri-County Electric Cooperative, we believe the key to a brighter future lies in empowering the next generation. That’s why electric cooperatives across Illinois are committed to investing in youth through scholarships that honor the legacy of our cooperative family while fueling the dreams and goals of tomorrow’s leaders.

The electric cooperatives of Illinois will award 17 scholarships of $3,000 each to outstanding students as part of the Thomas H. Moore Illinois Electric Cooperatives (IEC) Memorial Scholarship Program.

This program is about more than financial aid — it’s about empowering students. While honoring those who came before us, we are investing in the future. Illinois’ electric cooperatives are always looking for ways to spark positive change in our communities, and supporting youth through scholarships is one of the most impactful ways we can help shape tomorrow.

Scholarships Available:

Ten scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors whose parent(s) are members of an Illinois electric cooperative.
The Earl W. Struck Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a student whose parent is an Illinois electric cooperative employee or director, honoring a legacy of service within the cooperative family.
Five scholarships will be awarded to students enrolling full-time at an Illinois community college whose parent(s) are electric cooperative members.
The LaVern and Nola McEntire Memorial Lineworker’s Scholarship supports students pursuing a career in linework through enrollment in the lineworker program at Lincoln Land Community College. Eligible applicants include children of cooperative members, relatives of employees or directors, and individuals who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces or National Guard.

The general scholarship application deadline is Dec. 31, 2025, and the lineworker scholarship is due by April 30, 2026. For more information, visit aiec.coop or www.tricountycoop.com.

This is a wonderful opportunity for the next wave of bright minds in our co-op communities. These scholarships ensure that our future is powered by knowledge, service, and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we can light the way to a brighter tomorrow.