We are excited to share some incredible news for AdvanceNC! The Duke Energy Foundation recently announced a $600,000 investment to bolster North Carolina’s energy and manufacturing workforce—and AdvanceNC is a proud recipient of a $50,000 grant.
As Central North Carolina continues to see historic growth in advanced manufacturing and clean energy, the need for a coordinated, high-skill talent pipeline has never been greater. This funding is a direct investment in the infrastructure needed to meet that demand.
Funding the Future: A Dedicated Project Manager
The $50,000 award is specifically earmarked to support a dedicated full-time project manager role at AdvanceNC.
While our regional partnership brings together community colleges, universities, and workforce boards, this new role will provide the “boots on the ground” needed to maximize our impact. The project manager will focus on:
- Bridging the Gap: Strengthening the vital connections between our regional education partners and advanced manufacturing employers.
- Operationalizing Success: Creating a more seamless, fully operationalized ecosystem to move workforce initiatives from planning into active, sustainable programs.
- Scaling the Pipeline: Ensuring that local students and job seekers have clear, accessible pathways into high-demand, high-paying careers right here at home.
Why This Matters Now
North Carolina is experiencing a manufacturing boom, with billions in new investments and tens of thousands of jobs announced in just the last year. Duke Energy’s investment recognizes that for this growth to be sustainable, we must have a “well-prepared, locally trained workforce.”
By funding this project manager position, Duke Energy is helping AdvanceNC create a more seamless ecosystem where local talent can find high-paying careers right here at home.
What’s Next for AdvanceNC
This grant marks a major step forward in our organizational growth. Securing a full-time project manager will allow us to scale our efforts, deepen our corporate partnerships, and better serve our communities. We are just getting started, and we look forward to sharing more exciting updates as we continue to expand our capacity.
“Investing in North Carolina’s community colleges and regional partners is critical as our industry and state meet this incredible growth moment,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president.
We are deeply grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for their confidence in our mission. Together, we are not just preparing for the future of North Carolina—we are building it.
To read the full press release from Duke Energy, click here.
