Duke Energy Foundation has announced a $500,000 investment aimed at supporting community colleges in North Carolina. The funding is intended to help prepare students for careers in the energy and skilled trades sectors.
Up to 20 community colleges will be eligible for $25,000 grants each. These grants are designed to expand or strengthen programs that support critical roles such as lineworker training, electrical, mechanical and electronics engineering technology, welding, plumbing, construction trades, and vehicle maintenance.
The need for these skilled workers is increasing as North Carolina experiences rapid growth and record energy demand. Duke Energy’s latest initiative builds on its ongoing commitment to workforce development in the state. Over the past five years, Duke Energy and its partners have invested more than $6 million in similar efforts.
Dr. Jeff Cox, President of North Carolina Community College System, said: “Our community colleges align education with real workforce needs – driving skills, careers and economic mobility across North Carolina. Investments like this from partners such as Duke Energy Foundation help us build and sustain programs that connect students to in-demand jobs and strengthen the talent pipeline our state needs to thrive.”
Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy North Carolina state president, stated: “This investment reflects our long-term commitment to building a skilled, homegrown workforce that keeps North Carolina’s economy moving and our energy grid strong. Community colleges are at the heart of that talent pipeline, helping us meet this moment head-on.”
Eligible community colleges can apply for these grants through the Duke Energy Foundation’s website until February 25.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support for communities served by Duke Energy customers. The foundation is funded by shareholders of Duke Energy.
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) is headquartered in Charlotte and serves 8.6 million electric utility customers across six states. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in five states. The company continues investing in upgrades to its electric grid and cleaner generation resources as part of its broader energy transition strategy.
More information about these initiatives can be found at duke-energy.com and through the Duke Energy News Center.
