Ivan Castaneda was working as a barber in Norwalk when he was faced with a choice: take out student loans and go back to school or continue to cut hair.

Taking a leap of faith, he chose a career change and applied for Edison International’s Lineworker Scholarship.

A risk that soon paid off.

Castaneda was chosen as one of 12 scholarship recipients in the 2023 cohort, meaning he no longer needed a loan.

“They called me while I was working at the shop and I just got goosebumps,” Castaneda said. “I’m grateful and blessed that I got the opportunity of a lifetime to start a new career.”

The scholarship is funded by Edison International shareholders and IBEW Local 47, awarding up to $25,000 per recipient for tuition, tools and support services needed to complete required training at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College. Once they have completed their training, scholars are eligible to qualify for an entry-level skilled trade position at Southern California Edison.

“Edison International is proud to support the Lineworker Scholarship since its inception in 2021,” said Alex Esparza, SCE principal manager of Corporate Philanthropy and Community Engagement. “We are dedicated to empowering and diversifying the next generation of skilled trade workers by providing hands-on training and support so that our workforce better reflects the communities we serve.”

Since receiving the scholarship, Castaneda has finished the required courses, earned a Class A driver’s license and his climbing certificate. He has also secured a position with SCE as an telecommunications helper, beginning in June.

In his role, he will join a crew to help install, maintain and repair telecom systems by preparing reels and hardware, digging holes to set power poles and operating machines and equipment.

Castaneda says this scholarship has “opened doors” for him and encourages those interested not to give up.

“Be teachable, responsible and a team player. You do not have to be the best climber in the class, you just need to have the heart to show up every day,” he said

Zuriel Moreland is an electrical systems inspector with SCE, he also thanks the Edison International scholarship for his career in linework.

“I get to go home with a sense of pride. I love what I do,” said Moreland a 2021 scholarship recipient. “I’m making sure everyone is safe and preventing potential hazards from occurring. It feels good to be a part of that.”

Moreland started at SCE as a groundman and used that experience to propel himself into his current inspector role where he checks power poles to ensure the safety and reliability of the electrical system. And, as a licensed drone pilot, he also captures aerial images of that equipment.

“My advice for anyone wanting to go for the scholarship is to just do it. There is going to be some hard work and long days but you’re applying to get on with a great company,” he said. “There are so many positions, so many opportunities and support from a well-run organization. It’s been great for me and my family.”

To learn more about the Lineworker Scholarship, visit edison.com/lineworkerscholarship. Applications are accepted through May 10, 11:59 p.m. PDT.

To learn more about careers at SCE, visit edisoncareers.com.