Duke Energy Foundation has announced a $500,000 investment aimed at supporting North Carolina community colleges in preparing students for careers in the energy and skilled trades sectors. Up to 20 community colleges will be eligible to receive grants of $25,000 each to enhance or expand programs such as lineworker training, electrical and mechanical engineering technology, welding, plumbing, construction trades, and vehicle maintenance.
The initiative comes as North Carolina experiences significant growth and increased energy demand. The company stated that developing a strong workforce pipeline is necessary to meet these needs.
Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the 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’s North Carolina state president, added: “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.”
Community colleges interested in applying can find further details on the Duke Energy Foundation website. Applications are open until February 25, 2026.
Over the past five years, Duke Energy—along with its foundation, employees and customers—has invested more than $6 million in workforce development initiatives across the region.
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 approximately 8.6 million electric utility customers across six states. Its natural gas utilities serve about 1.7 million customers across five states. The company continues investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation technologies including renewables and energy storage.
More information can be found at duke-energy.com or through the Duke Energy News Center.
