U.S. Virgin Islands (October 9, 2026) – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2027 Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship Program, continuing the Authority’s investment in Virgin Islands students pursuing education and careers in engineering and technical fields.
The opening of applications this week coincides with Public Power Week, an annual observance recognizing the role public power utilities play in serving their communities. The scholarship carries that community focus forward by helping students pursue opportunities that can benefit the people of the Virgin Islands for years to come.
The scholarship provides financial assistance at multiple levels of education, from technical training, trade certifications, and associate degrees through bachelor’s and graduate engineering programs, with opportunities available in three categories:
Bachelor’s Degree – Up to $80,000
Eligible applicants include:
- Graduating high school seniors
- College freshmen and sophomores
- University of the Virgin Islands students enrolled in or planning to enroll in the five-year engineering program
Associate’s Degree / Technical Certification – Up to $30,000
Eligible applicants include:
- Graduating high school seniors pursuing an associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
- Individuals planning to attend trade school to pursue careers in skilled trades, such as mechanics, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, or to obtain a technical certification in a related technical field.
Master’s Degree – Up to $60,000
Eligible applicants include:
- Students enrolled in an accredited graduate engineering program
- Individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an accredited engineering college or university
- Scholarship support is available for a maximum of three (3) years
Scholarships in each category are offered per district, supporting eligible students from across the U.S. Virgin Islands.
To be considered, applicants must be U.S. citizens and Virgin Islands residents with no criminal record. Selection criteria include academic achievement, standardized test scores, community involvement, and performance during a panel interview. Eligible scholarship expenses include tuition, room and board, books, fees, and supplies.
The scholarship honors the legacy of Alva C. McFarlane, who played an instrumental role in developing the program and dedicated his career to supporting Virgin Islands youth as Director of Apprenticeship and Training at the V.I. Department of Labor.
WAPA encourages eligible students, families, educators, and community members to share this opportunity and help connect future engineers and technical professionals with the resources available through the program.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communications Department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest through meaningful, transparent, and effective communication.