GateWay Community College (GWCC) has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program, with the possibility of renewal for up to 3 years. In this grant, GateWay will receive $65,000 from Johnson Controls and $35,000 coming as an in-kind donation of equipment such as water source heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow systems, among other items.
GateWay is one of only ten schools to receive similar HVAC grants for the 2023-2024 academic year. Johnson Controls grant funding is specifically to enhance the already robust HVAC program offered at GateWay’s Washington Campus. This grant will help GateWay provide additional enhanced services and education for our community and students.
“We’re thrilled that Johnson Controls recognized the deep potential we see in our community,” GateWay Community College President Dr. Amy Diaz said. “This grant will help ensure success for students who might ordinarily be at risk of leaving the program before graduation or certification completion.”
Since 2021 the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program has distributed $1 million annually to ten community colleges across the United States. As part of the program, Johnson Controls employees will work with GWCC to mentor and encourage students to join the skilled trades workforce, allowing students to gain a glimpse into the promising career opportunities available upon program completion. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software, and services. The grants bolster associate degree and certificate programs connected to Johnson Controls’ core businesses and industry.
“Having access to the latest technologies and systems is key in preparing our students for the real-world scenarios they will face in the field,” said Bruce Martz, HVAC Program Director. “It also ensures our graduates are job-ready from day one.”
The HVAC industry in the United States is experiencing continuous growth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor. Over the next decade, the industry could see more than 40,000 job openings each year. Johnson Controls aims to make a difference in the lives of students from underserved communities, and as a leader in career and technical education, GateWay is committed to educating the workforce of tomorrow.
“Not only are we investing in the next generation of workforce leaders, but the mentoring associated with this initiative reminds our employees why we do what we do,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “We’re looking at our future and through partnership with these colleges we’re all contributing to a better supported trades industry.”
To learn more about the HVAC program at GateWay Community College, please visit gatewaycc.edu/hvac.