Duke Energy Foundation Presents $10,000 Donation to FDTC to Support Welding Program
The Duke Energy Foundation has donated $10,000 to Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC) to directly support its Welding Program, strengthening workforce development in the region.
Over the past ten years, the Duke Energy Foundation has provided nearly $200,000 in grants to support the welding and other vital workforce development training programs at FDTC.
“As new residents and new industry continue to call the Carolinas home, we must prepare the energy grid and other significant infrastructure to support this growth,” Director of Government and Community Relations for Duke Energy Mindy Taylor said. “That means significant construction activities and new jobs across the region, and a skilled trade workforce will be critical in meeting this challenge.”
The donation will help equip students with the hands-on skills needed for high-demand careers in welding, contributing to the economic growth and infrastructure readiness of the Carolinas.
“Highly trained welders will be an important component of that workforce, and Florence-Darlington Tech has a proven track record of meeting the labor needs of our state,” Taylor added.
FDTC's Welding Program offers comprehensive training in processes such as SMAW (stick), GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), FCAW, and pipe welding, equipping students with hands-on skills to produce structurally sound, high-quality welds. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in manufacturing, construction, and industrial contracting, contributing to the area's workforce by filling high-demand roles.
“Duke Energy continues to value education and workforce development in the Pee Dee, and we appreciate this contribution that will enable our welding students to train on the latest equipment. This will help them matriculate into the workforce seamlessly,” Sheryl Love, Executive Director of the Foundation, said.
Those interested in enrolling in the program or applying for scholarships can contact the FDTC Admissions Office at 843-661-8324 or visit fdtc.edu to get started.