Foundation, Grants, Press Releases

Duke Energy awards $249,926 to Nash Community College

Duke Energy and Nash Community College (NCC) have announced a $249,926 investment from the Duke Energy Foundation. The funds will be used to develop the NCC Robotics Training Lab.

The Lab will feature hands-on robotics training in process and logistics controls, control wiring, instrumentation, and motors and controls skills preparing students for positions in packaging and handling or mechanical assembly. The grant funds will provide equipment, including two FANUC robots, four Festo Robot Assembly tables and an automated maneuverable robot and systems similar to the maneuverable and storage retrieval robots used by local employers. The addition of new robots will help decrease the student-to-training tool ratio and prepare students for the FANUC Vision certification. Training tables feature built-in, progressive activities designed to prepare students for workplace tasks.

“Nash Community College offers unique programs and training to prepare students for success in competitive local industry,” said Tanya Evans, Duke Energy district manager. “This robotics lab shows a commitment to innovation and workforce development, two areas we proudly support.”

NCC’s automation training includes training and third-party certifications in robotics, process and logistics controls, control wiring, instrumentation, and motors and controls. NCC is a FANUC Certified Education Robot Training (CERT) provider preparing students for a wide variety of production occupations with local employers such as New Standard Corporation, QVC, Hospira, and Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant.

“Nash Community College is proud of its longstanding partnership with Duke Energy to provide a skilled workforce for local and regional careers and beyond,” NCC President Bill Carver said. “We are indebted to Duke Energy for its investment in the community. It is evident that education is an important corporate initiative and providing students with opportunities for successful futures helps build a strong North Carolina.”

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to address the needs vital to the health of our communities. Annually, the Foundation funds more than $25 million in charitable grants, with a focus on education, environment, economic and workforce development and community impact. Duke Energy has long been committed to supporting the communities where its customers and employees live and work, and will continue to build on this legacy.