In honor of MICEF’s founding member’s passing, in August of 2022 the Leadership Council and Board of Directors moved to rename the fellowship program the ‘Mark Pischea Fellowship Program’. Founding the Conservative Energy Network in 2016, Mark’s work grew from a small operation in Lansing to a network spanning 21 states and employing over six dozen professionals. His legacy in this space will impact the clean energy movement for generations. It is not hyperbole to suggest Mark forever changed the way our nation views energy; his true passion was advancing clean energy policy.
Pischea Fellows will have the opportunity to learn about Michigan's energy landscape and how conservative energy policies can create jobs, expand our economy, improve national security and responsibly make use of our natural resources. The 2024 program will tentatively run from February 5 - May 6, 2024 with dates subject to change. Fellows receive a $1,000 stipend for participating in the program.
During that time, each fellow will choose an energy topic to research and develop a unique project to explore that topic. Past projects have included white papers and policy primers, a podcast series, mini-documentary, and a series of Op-Eds published in print and digital media. Along with their main project, Fellows will be expected to produce a press release, blog posts, and social media content. In addition to their independent research, fellows will have the opportunity to meet regularly with the MICEF Leadership Council, join educational meetings with legislators and candidates, and participate in grassroots events.
Mark Pischea, Michigan Conservative Energy Forum and Conservative Energy Network’s founding member.
“Serving as a fellow with MICEF really opened my eyes to the importance of energy in Michigan and around the world. This fellowship program also offers great connections with leaders around the state. I cannot recommend the program enough.”
Eligibility Requirements
In order to apply you must be a college student or a young professional currently participating in a young professionals organization. An ideal candidate is a self-starter, clear communicator, excellent writer and eager to learn about Michigan energy policy and share that knowledge with their peers and the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be paid for participating in this program?
Yes. Each Fellow will receive a $1,000 stipend over the course of the program. $250 payments will be issued each month beginning in February and ending in May.
How many hours a week will I be expected to work?
The time you put into this program will vary from week to week. Most of your research and writing will be conducted independently, but you will have to meet deadlines for written assignments. You will be invited to participate in other meetings and events throughout the program, but you will not have to attend all of them.
Do I have to work from the MiCEF office?
No. Most of your work will be conducted from the comfort of your own home. You will be expected to join some meetings which will be held in the House or Senate office buildings and our monthly Leadership Council meeting is held at our office, but you can also call in if you are unable to attend in person.
Who will I be working with?
You will work under the supervision of MICEF Program & Operations Director Emily Szczerowski.
