Duke Energy Foundation announced on Tuesday it is awarding grants to four organizations in central and north-central Indiana supporting workforce development efforts. The shareholder-funded grants aim to equip Hoosiers with in-demand skills and industry-recognized credentials to meet the needs of the region’s employers.
Among the awardees is Ivy Tech Foundation, which will receive $35,000.
Pinegar
“Local business leaders regularly tell us that a skilled workforce is key to the continued economic growth of the communities we serve,” Duke Energy Indiana President Stan Pinegar said. “These grants will help expand the state’s skilled talent pool, create opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment, and strengthen Indiana’s competitiveness when attracting companies. They are smart investments in our customers and the places they live and work.”
With the grant, Ivy Tech will enhance its workforce development training for critical energy economy careers with its grant. The funding will support hands-on instruction, academic resources, and workforce alignment initiatives in high-demand trades such as welding, industrial technology, construction, and building maintenance. The expected outcome is increased enrollment and completion rates, a stronger workforce pipeline for the energy sector, and graduates equipped with the technical expertise to meet regional employer demands.
The grants awarded Tuesday will support innovative workforce training programs that prepare individuals with the skills necessary to thrive in the state’s fastest-growing industries, including the energy, construction, and technology fields.
About Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.