The Duke Energy Foundation announced on Apr. 14 that it is investing $600,000 to strengthen North Carolina’s energy workforce. Of this amount, $500,000 will be distributed among 20 community colleges in the state, while an additional $100,000 will support two regional partners focused on expanding access to high-demand training programs aligned with the energy sector.
Community colleges and regional workforce partners play a key role in connecting local talent with the growing needs of the energy industry. This investment comes as enrollment in North Carolina’s community college system has increased at a rate four times higher than the national average between 2024 and 2025.
Each of the selected schools will receive $25,000 to support hands-on training initiatives such as equipment purchases, scholarships, and curriculum enhancements for programs related to electrical systems, linework, welding, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies. The Duke Energy Foundation is also allocating $50,000 each to The Forward Fund (TFF) and AdvanceNC. TFF’s funding will help expand its zero-interest loan program for students pursuing skilled trades by covering essential expenses like transportation and childcare; this year’s grant will also pilot support for pipefitting programs at Alamance Community College and Piedmont Community College. AdvanceNC’s grant will fund a full-time position dedicated to strengthening connections between education providers and advanced manufacturing employers.
Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president said: “Investing in North Carolina’s community colleges is critical as our industry and state meet this incredible growth moment. These programs are proven launchpads into meaningful, in‑demand careers – helping build the workforce that will power what’s next and support the infrastructure our customers rely on every day.”
Dr. Kevin Lee of Piedmont Community College added: “We are grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for this investment in Piedmont Community College and the communities we serve. This grant will allow us to launch a short-term pipefitting program that will quickly prepare students for high-demand careers while directly supporting the workforce needs of our region. It’s a powerful example of how partnerships can create immediate opportunity and long-term economic impact.”
Vanessa Shelton Sotlen from Central Piedmont Community College said: “We are deeply grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for this investment and long-term partnership that allows Central Piedmont to expand hands-on training in our lineworker program. This funding allows us to add critical, industry-specific equipment which will reduce downtime, improve safety, and ensure our graduates are ready to meet CDL requirements and succeed in the utility workforce.”
North Carolina remains one of America’s fastest-growing states with more than 11 million residents; companies announced over 35,000 new jobs tied largely to new manufacturing facilities last year alone—a trend driving increased demand for reliable energy infrastructure.
