Eastland region university students have until 31 October to apply for Eastland Group’s annual tertiary study scholarship.

The scholarship offers $5,000 to students studying engineering, and comes with the possibility of paid holiday work with the company.

Group chief executive Matt Todd said a new category of engineering study had been added to the scholarship conditions for 2017.

“Our aim is to select students studying subjects that complement Eastland Group’s business and operations. Therefore, applicants must be studying civil, mechanical or electrical engineering. This year – given our long-term commitment to geothermal energy – we have added chemical and process engineering to the mix as well.”

Eastland Group owns the 9MW GDL geothermal power plant, and expects its new 25MW Te Ahi O Maui geothermal project to be operational in 2018. Both plants are located on the Kawerau geothermal field in the Bay of Plenty.

Last year, two $5000 scholarships were awarded: to Gisborne’s Sam Godwin, who is studying at the University of Canterbury towards a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) specialising in Civil Engineering, and to Lytton High School student Kelsey Coronno, who started her electrical engineering studies at Auckland University in February.

Scholarship application details: www.eastland.nz/scholarship

Applicants must write a 1000 word essay explaining how the Eastland Group scholarship will help them achieve their study and career aspirations.