Duke Energy Grants Boost NC Workforce Training and Energy Careers
The Duke Energy Foundation has pledged $500,000 to bolster workforce training through 19 community college initiatives across North Carolina. These programs aim to equip students with the skills needed to support the rapidly expanding energy sector. An additional $100,000 grant will go toward the Forward Fund, which helps students in Southeastern North Carolina secure access to high-paying career paths.
As the state continues to grow and modernize its energy infrastructure, Duke Energy Foundation is focusing on building a pipeline of skilled talent by supporting education and training that aligns with local workforce needs. These new grants are part of a broader workforce development strategy, with the foundation having invested over $6.6 million in such efforts over the past five years.
“North Carolina’s community colleges are essential partners as we adapt to evolving technologies and enhance our energy systems,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s president for North Carolina. “We’re committed to cultivating in-state talent to power our communities and shape a more advanced energy future.”
Durham Technical Community College was awarded $25,000 to support its Electric Line Technician Training program.
“Duke Energy’s ongoing support allows Durham Tech to link trained professionals with high-demand roles like electric line technician,” said college president J.B. Buxton. “We’re proud to be one of the few institutions in North Carolina offering a direct pathway to these essential careers.”
A complete list of grant recipients and additional statements can be found here.
For the first time, the Duke Energy Foundation is also contributing to the Forward Fund (TFF). This initiative provides interest-free loans to cover necessary living costs such as transportation and childcare, enabling students to fully engage in their studies. TFF serves learners enrolled in short-term programs that are aligned with local job market demands and lead to well-paying positions. Loan repayments begin only once graduates reach a specified income level and are then reinvested to support future students.
“We’re honored to receive this grant from the Duke Energy Foundation,” said Meaghan Dennis, founder and CEO of TFF. “Our tailored, interest-free loans cover tuition and life essentials, helping students stay in school and succeed. We’re proud to contribute to building a skilled workforce for North Carolina’s growing energy sector.”
As the state continues to grow and modernize its energy infrastructure, Duke Energy Foundation is focusing on building a pipeline of skilled talent by supporting education and training that aligns with local workforce needs. These new grants are part of a broader workforce development strategy, with the foundation having invested over $6.6 million in such efforts over the past five years.
“North Carolina’s community colleges are essential partners as we adapt to evolving technologies and enhance our energy systems,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s president for North Carolina. “We’re committed to cultivating in-state talent to power our communities and shape a more advanced energy future.”
Durham Technical Community College was awarded $25,000 to support its Electric Line Technician Training program.
“Duke Energy’s ongoing support allows Durham Tech to link trained professionals with high-demand roles like electric line technician,” said college president J.B. Buxton. “We’re proud to be one of the few institutions in North Carolina offering a direct pathway to these essential careers.”
A complete list of grant recipients and additional statements can be found here.
For the first time, the Duke Energy Foundation is also contributing to the Forward Fund (TFF). This initiative provides interest-free loans to cover necessary living costs such as transportation and childcare, enabling students to fully engage in their studies. TFF serves learners enrolled in short-term programs that are aligned with local job market demands and lead to well-paying positions. Loan repayments begin only once graduates reach a specified income level and are then reinvested to support future students.
“We’re honored to receive this grant from the Duke Energy Foundation,” said Meaghan Dennis, founder and CEO of TFF. “Our tailored, interest-free loans cover tuition and life essentials, helping students stay in school and succeed. We’re proud to contribute to building a skilled workforce for North Carolina’s growing energy sector.”
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