Duke Energy Foundation has announced a $500,000 investment to support North Carolina community colleges in preparing students for careers in the energy and skilled trades sectors. The funding is intended to help address workforce needs as the state experiences rapid growth and increased energy demand.
Community colleges across North Carolina are eligible to apply for grants of up to $25,000 each. These grants aim to expand or enhance programs that train students for roles such as lineworkers, electricians, welders, and other technical positions vital to the energy industry. Applications will be accepted through February 25, 2026.
According to Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System, “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.”
The company reports that over the past five years it has invested more than $6 million in workforce development initiatives through its foundation, employees, and customers.
Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support for communities where Duke Energy operates. The foundation is funded by shareholders.
Duke Energy is one of the largest energy holding companies in the United States. Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., it serves 8.6 million electric customers across six states and owns more than 55 gigawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers across five states.
The company continues work on an energy transition focused on reliability and value while investing in grid upgrades and cleaner power sources such as renewables and energy storage.
Additional information about program details and applications can be found on Duke Energy Foundation’s website.
