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Duke Energy Foundation recently announced $500,000 to support 19 North Carolina community college programs that are creating a pipeline of skilled workers who will help meet the energy industry's growing workforce needs. A $100,000 grant will also support the Forward Fund to help students in Southeastern North Carolina attain high-wage employment opportunities.
Isothermal Community College received $25,000 in grant awards for its workforce development program. Isothermal was among 19 community college to receive the grant awards.
"Isothermal Community College is excited for this opportunity to increase the visibility of, and access to, promising career opportunities with family sustaining wages. Duke Energy's support of a robust recruitment campaign to promote our Electrical Engineering Technology programs is a demonstration of Duke Energy's commitment to supporting our community through connection to valuable workforce training," said Isothermal President Dr. Margaret H. Annunzita. "Isothermal remains committed to providing, in strategic partnership with employers, state and regional leaders, and K-12 school districts, high-quality education that empowers individuals, supports local businesses with a skilled workforce, and strengthens our community's economic future."
As North Carolina continues to deploy modern energy infrastructure and meet the needs of a growing state, Duke Energy Foundation is investing in programs that will build the next generation workforce and create access to training and job skills that fit community needs. These grants are part of Duke Energy's ongoing commitment to workforce development, which totals more than $6.6 million over the last five years.
"As our state and industry continue to grow, North Carolina's community colleges are helping us meet the moment," said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president. "As technologies change and we modernize our energy fleet, we want talent here in the state to help us support our communities and build a smarter energy future for customers."
Durham Technical Community College received a $25,000 grant to enhance its Electric Line Technician Training program.
"Duke Energy's continued commitment to Durham Tech ensures we are connecting skilled individuals to good jobs like electric line technicians," said Durham Technical Community College President J.B. Buxton. "We are proud to be one of the few locations in the state that offers a pathway to these in-demand positions that communities rely on to keep the lights on."
For the first time, Duke Energy Foundation is also making an investment in the Forward Fund (TFF). TFF provides zero-interest loans to cover essential life expenses like transportation and child care, allowing students to focus on school full time. TTF participants are enrolled in short-term training programs directly connected to regional employer demand and high-wage employment opportunities. Repayments begin after participants earn a minimum salary requirement and are cycled back into the fund for loans to future learners.
"The Forward Fund is thrilled to receive this grant from Duke Energy Foundation to expand access of our customized, student-centered financing to students enrolling in proven Electrical Lineworker programs in Southeastern North Carolina and across the state," said Meaghan Dennis, founder and chief executive officer. "Our zero-interest loans cover tuition, fees and life expenses for students during the program, removing the financial hurdles that may prevent them from enrolling or graduating. We're excited to be part of the workforce solution for high-wage energy careers in the state."
