Lowe’s Foundation Awards $1 Million Grant to Central Piedmont’s Skilled Trades Program

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The Lowe's Foundation Announces $50 Million Gable Grants Program to Help Meet Growing Demand for Skilled Tradespeople | Lowe’s Corporate (lowes.com). Central Piedmont requested $1 million as one of only two community colleges in the nation as part of this cohort to receive that amount. We are committing to provide 500 skilled trades certifications over the next two years for entry-level positions in the construction field as part of Lowe's $50 million Gable Grants program to "help meet growing demand for skilled tradespeople" over the next five years (2023-2027). In addition, we will invest in renovations in Harper I and Lowe's Foundation Learning Labs that will be located throughout the County for broader reach and easy access to provide certifications. 

🛠️ Lowe’s Foundation has awarded a $1 million Gable Grant to Central Piedmont to bolster its skilled trades certifications, expand its reach in Mecklenburg County, and undertake renovations at Harper Campus.

Grant Highlights:

  • Central Piedmont is one of just 11 community colleges nationwide to receive this grant this year.
  • The grant will increase educational opportunities for students pursuing construction-related certifications.
  • Renovations include updating lab spaces and introducing mobile learning cottages to various campuses and communities, eliminating transportation barriers.

Program Enhancements:

  • The mobile learning cottages will offer training in construction, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing throughout Charlotte.
  • This initiative is part of Lowe’s Foundation’s $50 million commitment over five years to prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers.

Quotes: “Construction and the skilled trades have been part of Central Piedmont’s program offerings since the college opened its doors almost 61 years ago. Our students learn quickly that these are versatile, high-demand careers with endless opportunities for growth and advancement,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. “We are so appreciative of this generous grant from the Lowe’s Foundation. Central Piedmont places a high priority on producing skilled trades professionals who can hit the ground running. We thank the Lowe’s Foundation for partnering with us to help meet a critical need in the Charlotte region.”

Skilled Trade Programs Offered at Central Piedmont:

  • Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration ❄️🔥
  • Construction and Construction Management 🏗️
  • Electrical Systems ⚡
  • Non-destructive Examination 🔍
  • Sustainability Technologies 🌱
  • Utilities and Clean Energy 🔋
  • Welding 🔧

Students can pursue degrees, diplomas, or certificates in these fields, with some accelerated programs offered at no cost.

🔗 For more information about Central Piedmont’s skilled trades programs, visit our website.