My name is KC, and I work for WindAid Institute – an NGO and educational institute that provides a clean and reliable source of energy via small-scale wind turbines to remote communities in Peru, thus providing power to people who would not otherwise have access to it.
I am emailing because we have had previous students that currently attend or previously attended Boise State University who joined us down here in Trujillo, Peru, perhaps thanks to you. Hands-on, practical experience is proven to best integrate classroom concepts, and working in a nonprofit environment offers the chance to become a more well-rounded individual outside the classroom. We understand that your students who came through our program have experienced this in their time with us, and we would like to connect with you to make sure the same life-changing opportunities are available to your other students.
Allow me to further describe WindAid Institute. Students and professionals from all academic and professional backgrounds come from all over the world to work together on designing, building, and installing wind turbines and their corresponding electronic systems in the surrounding communities. We also get involved in said communities, teaching the locals how to operate and maintain their turbines, educating adults and kids alike about sustainability, and otherwise integrating into day-to-day life in Trujillo, Peru.
Get involved with WindAid:
In person training
Come to Trujillo, Peru for the experience of a lifetime! Students can pick one of two paths:
- Participate in building a wind turbine, make connections with other students of similar mindset, and meet the families for whom they are providing clean energy for a truly rewarding experience. Engineering background is not required. Various 2 and 4 week opportunities are available throughout the year. Further information and dates can be found here: https://windaid.org/engineering-program
- Become part of the management team, choosing to focus on other areas such as marketing & communications, educational & community outreach, and machine shop work. Various multi-month opportunities are available throughout the year. This is a good option for those looking for a longer experience such as sabbaticals or capstone projects.
Internships
- Various opportunities to allow students to develop real-life skills while simultaneously making a difference with an NGO. The internships have flexible start and end dates and depending on the position can be in-person in Peru or online.
Institute partnerships
Multiple opportunities are available between WindAid and higher educational institutions. Currently we have partnerships with French University ENSEEIHT and the company Airbus, who use our institute to run a student-lead field-testing site for their new electric generator.
I have attached an information flier and our 2024 program dates for you to share. Overall, WindAid allows students the chance to have a real impact with hands-on professional experience in wind energy projects, gain practical knowledge and skills with an NGO, and overall make a net positive impact in a rural community.
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KC Neri
Communications & Fundraising Coordinator Assistant
WindAid Institute
