Month: January 2026

Sustainability Professional Development Opportunities

Are you a student looking for sustainability-related professional development opportunities? See a list of opportunities below to broaden your network and develop sustainability competencies. From conferences to certifications to online trainings, there are myriad opportunities available to help you make connections and explore the world of sustainability.

Professional development funding is available! There are funding opportunities available to support Michigan Tech students in developing climate change leadership skills. Visit the Student Funding Opportunities webpage on the Office of Sustainability and Resilience site to learn more.

Conferences

Certifications

Online Trainings

Apply for 2026 Climate Change Leadership Funding Opportunities

Two funding opportunities to help students develop climate change leadership skills are now available for Michigan Tech students, thanks to generous alumni gifts.

  1. Frank Chernosky Climate Ambassador Award (upper-level undergraduates only)
    • Award: Award includes $8,000 tuition scholarship + up to $1,600 for professional development; one award available for 2026-27
    • Duration: Funds usable through August 2027
    • Includes: Partial tuition and funds/support to pursue professional development opportunities
    • Deadline: Friday, March 13
    • Apply: 2026 Chernosky Award application form
  2. NextGen Climate Leaders Fund (all student levels)
    • Award: Up to $1,000 per student (a minimum of $10,000 total available for 2026)
    • Eligible activities: Professional development opportunities that build climate leadership skills and networks
    • Deadline: Rolling applications accepted through 2026
    • Review time: 10 business days
    • Apply: 2026 NextGen application form

Note for graduate students: Research expenses are ineligible. For proposed conference travel, please demonstrate how the experience is complementary to your research and coursework.

Looking for more information?
Please visit the Student Funding Opportunities webpage to learn more about funding and award details. Feel free to send questions to Alan Turnquist, Director of Sustainability and Resilience sustainability@mtu.edu.