PLAINFIELD, Ind. – The Duke Energy Foundation recently announced it is awarding more than $330,000 in shareholder-funded grants to 16 statewide organizations working to create a pipeline of skilled workers prepared to meet Indiana’s workforce needs.
“Without fail, employers and community leaders I speak to in our service territory list workforce as an immediate area of focus,” said Duke Energy Indiana president Stan Pinegar. “Duke Energy is committed to helping Indiana’s workers obtain the skills and industry-recognized credentials needed to meet the state’s current and future labor market needs.”
Locally, two organizations were awarded a total of over $50,000 in grant money.
- Central Nine Career Center (Johnson County) – $45,213. Funds will support the purchase of a pipe welding system to help high school and adult education students gain industry certification in pipe welding techniques.
- Columbus Area Chamber Foundation (Bartholomew County) – $10,000. Funds will support local startups and entrepreneurs through coaching, education, and training.