For decades, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have been creating opportunities for local educators that extend learning beyond the classroom and create experiences that will serve students for years to come. That commitment to education continues through partnerships like the Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership at NC State University, connecting educators with real-world industry experiences they can bring back to their classrooms and students.

This summer, Union Power Cooperative will welcome Kristin Owens-White, an environmental teacher at South Stanly Middle School, as its 2026-27 Kenan Fellow. The Kenan Fellows Program offers yearlong professional development and industry immersion internships that connect K-12 educators with local industries, community organizations and higher education institutions.

During her three-week STEM internship with Union Power Cooperative, Owens-White will gain firsthand knowledge of regional career pathways and workforce skills to share with her students. In turn, she will translate her experiences with the cooperative into engaging lessons and resources that bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce in her community.

“Supporting education is one of the best investments we can make in our communities,” said Emily Aldridge, communication/public relations specialist for Union Power Cooperative. “Through the Kenan Fellows Program, we can connect teachers with real-world experiences that strengthen classroom learning, inspire students and introduce them to career opportunities close to home. We’re proud to support educators like Kristin Owens-White as they help prepare the next generation of leaders.”

Starting over

For most of her career, Owens-White worked in emergency response, serving as a dispatcher, EMT and paramedic while also working with the fire department. She also worked in urgent care for several years before seeking a new opportunity.

With newfound time on her hands, Owens-White decided to serve as a substitute teacher at her son’s school. What began as a 10-day assignment ultimately changed her life and introduced her to a new passion.

“At the end of those 10 days, those kids were begging me to become a teacher,” said Owens-White. “I told them, ‘No, maybe a teacher’s assistant. I’m too old to go back to school to become a teacher.’ But those students ended up writing recommendation letters to the teaching program at Pfeiffer University, encouraging them to consider me for a teaching position. I’m here because a group of fifth graders who would have never had me as a teacher encouraged me to go back to school, and I’m grateful they did.”

Today, Owens-White teaches environmental connections, a course she says puts a unique spin on traditional STEM education by helping students understand how the choices they make today can shape the future. That includes taking an unconventional approach to her lesson plans.

“My students would say I’m the weird teacher,” said Owens-White. “I’m always carrying around a snake or bringing salamanders into the classroom. We have worm compost bins and pollinator gardens. It’s always something interesting to catch their attention and create hands-on lessons that help them see the relevance in their everyday lives.”

As both a teacher and a foster parent, Owens-White says she understands the importance of making a positive impact in children’s lives.

“Kids need a person, and it might be right here at school,” said Owens-White. “I want to help be a light in a dark place for those kids.”

Cooperative support for education

Owens-White is familiar with electric cooperatives as a two-time Bright Ideas winner with Pee Dee Electric. Those grants funded raised-bed gardens, as well as science carts with pre-made lessons for teachers and students.

When she heard about the Kenan Fellowship with Union Power Cooperative, Owens-White wasn’t just familiar with the cooperative way, she knew she wanted to be part of an opportunity that aligned with her passion for hands-on learning.

“I am constantly seeking ways to grow — not only to become a more effective educator in my classroom, but also to contribute meaningfully to my school, district and community,” said Owens-White. “I believe that growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone, and I cannot think of a better way to develop as a leader than through the Kenan Fellowship.”

Owens-White says she’s honored to be selected by Union Power Cooperative, and with this being her first real introduction to the energy industry, she’s excited to bring the lessons she learns into the classroom.

“I’m excited to learn about electricity, how it works and how Union Power Cooperative is working to power the future,” said Owens-White. “To be there throughout the summer and be immersed alongside the people working in it every day is going to be a valuable experience that serves me and my students.”