WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Duke Energy has awarded $50,000 to support apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programs at Forsyth Tech through the college's Learn and Earn Apprenticeship program.

“In order for our community to thrive, we must work together to fill jobs with skilled employees,” said Janet Spriggs, president of Forsyth Technical Community College. “Through our Learn and Earn Apprenticeship Program (LEAP @ Forsyth), students get on-the-job training while in school, giving them new insight in what they are learning in class. This program is giving underemployed or unemployed individuals an opportunity for a rewarding career.”

This grant is part of the $5 million Duke Energy/Piedmont Natural Gas Community College Apprenticeship Grant program announced in April 2017. The apprenticeship grant program was administered by the NC Community Foundation and Foundation for the Carolinas. Award decisions were made by a committee of representatives from Duke Energy, NC Community College System and NC Department of Commerce.

“North Carolina’s community colleges are essential to train the workforce that businesses rely on,” said Jimmy Flythe, Duke Energy director of government and community relations. “We are proud to partner with Forsyth Tech to give students job opportunities while preparing them to meet the region’s evolving business needs.”

Since 2004, Duke Energy has invested $45 million in North Carolina’s community colleges, with a focus on technical education and support of business and industry.

The latest grant to Forsyth Tech follows a $200,000 award that Duke Energy awared in fall 2019 to support apprenticeships.

###