Grant Helps To Train More Women, Minorities In Energy Sector

FLORIDA — Duke Energy is investing $734,000 worth of grants across the state that will help students of minority communities and women to prepare for employment in the energy sector, according to a news release.

"These grants support vital programs and help develop a diverse workforce needed to strengthen our communities and economies today and in the future.” Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president, said.

One of this year's recipients is the University of South Florida and its Call Me MISTER initiative aimed at increasing the number of Black male teachers in local elementary schools. The university is receiving a $50,000 grant from Duke.

A $100,000 grant was given to the University of Florida.

“We greatly appreciate Duke Energy’s generosity and foresight in making this gift,” Dr. Jonathan Scheffe, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at the University of Florida, said. “It will enable an exciting new pathway for students who want to build an engineering career in energy sustainability and resiliency. Students will learn about state-of-the-art, climate-friendly technologies that reflect the future needs of energy.”

Below are this years grant recipients, programs and awards in the Tampa Bay area:

• AmSkills Inc. – AmSkills High School Pre-apprenticeship Program ($23,000)
• Citrus County Education Foundation – Foundation for Success Projects ($6,000)
• Florida Polytechnic University Foundation – Transformer and Transformer Stations for new Cybersecurity Engineering Program ($25,000)
• Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation – Elevating Engineering Achievement, Career Attainment and Minority Student Readiness in Pasco and Hernando Counties ($40,000)
• Pinellas County Urban League Inc. – Duke Energy Lineworker Diversity Initiative ($15,000)
• Project Prosper – A financial literacy program tailored to the unique needs of refugees and immigrants ($10,000)
• St. Petersburg College Foundation – Electrical Lineworker Program ($50,000)
• University of South Florida Foundation – Call Me MISTER initiative aimed at increasing the number of male teachers of color in local elementary schools ($50,000)
• South Florida State College Hardee Campus – Increasing Training Opportunities for Electrical Lineworker Students by Expanding Training Capacity and Improving Safety ($30,000)