NC NEWSLINE – People often don’t think about lineworkers until the power goes out. But as blizzards and hurricanes become larger and stronger, and North Carolina’s population grows, the need for energy workers will increase in coming years as well.
Duke Energy is hoping to meet some of that demand by investing $500,000 in North Carolina’s community colleges to help train future workers for the utilities industry.
“North Carolina’s energy needs are growing from both new businesses and population growth,” Duke Energy senior communications manager Madison McDonald told NC Newsline. “To meet both today’s needs and what’s coming next, we need a pipeline of skilled workers — and community colleges are the backbone of that talent.”
The utility announced Thursday that community colleges across the state can apply for $25,000 grants which can be used towards strengthening programs that support skilled energy careers, like lineworker training, electrical, mechanical and electronics engineering, technology, vehicle maintenance, and welding, plumbing and construction trades.
Schools can use the funds for scholarships or program development as well as equipment and materials.
Up to 20 community colleges can receive funds. Applications are due Feb. 25.
“Our community colleges align education with real workforce needs — driving skills, careers and economic mobility across North Carolina,” Jeff Cox, president of North Carolina Community College System, said in a statement.
Cox said an investment like this helps to build and sustain programs connecting students with in-demand jobs and strengthening the talent pipeline in the state.
Piedmont Community College received a similar grant from Duke Energy last year. Jody Blackwell, the institution’s dean of technical and manufacturing programs, said the financial support allows the school to better train students for the energy workforce.
“We are committed to utilizing these funds for the betterment of our students, keeping up with the latest technologies and demonstrating the positive impact [Duke’s] investment will have at our institution,” Blackwell said in a statement.
