Undergraduate Communications Intern - EPIC/CAER at University of Kentucky – Lexington, Kentucky

HS diploma + 0 years of experience.

Coursework or prior experience in energy, environmental policy, public policy, communications, or a related discipline

Familiarity with Kentucky state and federal government or the energy sector
Experience with data visualization tools or ability to learn quickly

Graduate students or rising juniors/seniors preferred; all class levels welcome to apply

N/A

Requires handling lightweight objects up to 10lbs: standing and walking

8:00am – 5:00pm Monday-Friday

The Kentucky Energy Planning and Inventory Commission (EPIC) is an independent state agency established by the 2024 Kentucky General Assembly under KRS 164.2807. EPIC is administratively attached to the University of Kentucky’s Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) and is charged with providing independent, data-driven analysis to inform state energy policy. EPIC’s work spans three analytical pillars: demand forecasting, primary energy supply assessment, and transmission infrastructure.

This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a first-of-its-kind state energy planning agency at a pivotal moment in Kentucky’s energy future.

EPIC seeks motivated students to fill a rotating internship position supporting the agency’s communications and policy research functions. The intern will work directly with the Executive Director and contribute to EPIC’s public-facing communications, legislative support, and analytical research across energy topics including electricity supply adequacy, power plant retirements, data center energy demand, and transmission infrastructure.

Term Dates
| Summer 2026 | May 18, 2026 – August 8, 2026 | ~12 weeks
| Fall 2026 | Mid-August 2026 (August 24) | Mid-December 2026 (December 11) | ~16 weeks
| Spring 2027 | Mid-January 2027 (January 11) | Early May 2027 (May 7) | ~17 weeks

This position is well-suited for a student with interests in energy policy, public administration, environmental studies, communications, or a related field who wants hands-on experience in state government and energy planning.

Duties and Responsibilities:

- Support the development of public communications, including reports, briefings, legislative summaries, and web content
- Assist with policy research and background analysis on energy topics assigned by the Executive Director
- Track relevant legislation, regulatory proceedings, and industry developments, and produce summary materials
- Assist in preparation for board meetings, working committee meetings, and stakeholder briefings
- Support maintenance and updates to EPIC’s energy data platforms and dashboards
- Draft correspondence, talking points, and other written materials as directed
- Perform other duties in support of EPIC’s mission as assigned

The University of Kentucky is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities and other persons underrepresented in sciences, technology, engineering and math are encouraged to apply.

Strong writing and research skills
Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Interest in energy policy, public administration, environmental studies, or a related field

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.