Key Points:
- Duke Energy Foundation investment of $500,000 will support North Carolina community colleges in strengthening energy and skilled trades workforce programs.
- Up to 20 colleges can receive $25,000 grants to enhance technical training, equipment, and industry-aligned curricula.
- The initiative focuses on preparing students with practical skills to meet the state’s growing energy and infrastructure workforce needs.
Duke Energy Foundation has announced a Duke Energy Foundation investment of $500000 investment aimed at supporting community colleges across North Carolina as they prepare students for careers in the energy and skilled trades sectors. The funding is intended to strengthen education programs that help students gain practical skills aligned with current and future workforce needs. Up to 20 community colleges across the state will be eligible to receive grants as part of the initiative.
The funding is focused on helping colleges expand or enhance programs connected to energy-related and technical careers. These include training in electrical systems, mechanical technology, electronics engineering technology, construction trades, welding, plumbing, vehicle maintenance, and lineworker education. Each eligible institution may apply for a grant of $25000 to support program development, equipment upgrades, or instructional improvements.
Expanding Access To Technical Education
North Carolina continues to experience population growth and increased economic activity, which has led to rising demand for energy and infrastructure services. Meeting this demand requires a steady supply of trained professionals who are ready to work in technical and craft roles. Community colleges play a central role in this effort by offering accessible education pathways that combine classroom learning with hands-on experience.
The grant program, supported through the Duke Energy Foundation investment, is designed to help colleges respond to changing workforce needs. Funding can be used to expand enrollment capacity, modernize training environments, and align curriculum with current industry standards. For students, this can mean improved access to programs that lead directly to employment opportunities in essential fields.
Over the past five years, Duke Energy, its foundation, employees, and customers have collectively invested more than $6 million in workforce development efforts. These initiatives have supported education and training programs across the region, with a focus on building practical skills and improving job readiness.
Leaders within the North Carolina Community College System have emphasized the importance of partnerships that connect education to real world career pathways. Community colleges serve a wide range of learners, including recent high school graduates, working adults, and individuals seeking new skills. Investments in technical education help ensure that these students are prepared for roles that support economic growth and essential services.
Support For Students And Instructors
The Duke Energy Foundation investment also supports instructors and academic staff who deliver technical education. Grants may be used to update teaching tools, improve lab facilities, or introduce new instructional methods that reflect current workplace practices. This can help educators deliver more effective training while keeping pace with technological changes in the energy sector.
For students, access to well-resourced programs supported by the Duke Energy Foundation investment can improve learning outcomes and confidence as they enter the workforce. Programs supported by the grants are expected to focus on practical skills that are directly applicable to job roles in energy production, maintenance, and related trades.
Applications for the grants are open to eligible community colleges across the state. Institutions can apply through the Duke Energy Foundation website, with applications accepted until Feb 25 2026. Colleges are encouraged to outline how the funding would strengthen their programs and benefit students pursuing technical careers.
The Duke Energy Foundation investment reflects a continued focus on education pathways that prepare students for skilled careers. By supporting community colleges, the initiative aims to help students gain the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in technical roles that support North Carolina’s growing energy needs.
Visit more of our news! Future Education Magazine