North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Two North Carolina community colleges were each awarded $500,000 from the Lowe’s Foundation, as part of a nationwide funding program that supports skilled trades training.
At Blue Ridge Community College in Flat Rock, the grant will be used for ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene by expanding training programs in advanced manufacturing and key trades apprenticeships. The funding will also enable the college to hire certified instructors and offer tuition assistance to students from Western North Carolina.
“Collectively, we are writing a comeback story for the skilled trades industry,” said Janice Dupré, Lowe’s executive vice-president of human resources and chair of the Lowe’s Foundation. “Through our Gable Grants network, these schools join a community of innovators helping one another effectively recruit, train and employ the people America needs to revitalize our infrastructure.”
Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood, president of Blue Ridge Community College, expressed gratitude for the investment. “As Western North Carolina continues to recover from Hurricane Helene, the Gable Grant helps students prepare for essential careers that will enable them to support their families while contributing to the region’s long-term resilience,” she said.
Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington will introduce plumbing, facility maintenance and core construction programs at two correctional facilities and an adult high school program. The college’s curriculum features integrated virtual reality training along with industry recognized certifications to meet the needs of its growing employer network.
The funding comes through the Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants program, which has awarded $43 million since 2023 to 60 community colleges and nonprofits across 28 states. The grants aim to expand career pathways in fields such as carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, and construction amid a growing skilled labor shortage.
According to the National Association of Homebuilders, the skilled labor gap contributes to an estimated $10 billion annual loss in the housing industry.
The Lowe’s Foundation has committed $50 million over five years to train 50,000 people for skilled trades careers. The next application cycle for community-based nonprofits will open in August by invitation only.
Blue Ridge Community College is a two-year institution offering more than 200 degrees, diplomas, certificates, and online courses. It focuses on affordable, accessible education designed to prepare students for success in the workforce or further study..