Johnson Controls Renews North Seattle College Workforce Development Grant

female student in electronics classroom

North Seattle College received a $100,000 grant renewal, for a total award of $300,000, as part of the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program. This funding enhances on-campus training and educational opportunities for future leaders in the HVAC, digital, fire and security industries. North Seattle College, alongside Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, remains committed to addressing the skilled trades gap through strategic investments to equip the future skilled trades workforce and foster strong communities
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“This generous grant from Johnson Controls is helping North Seattle College broaden participation in its Electronics pathways for individuals who are currently underrepresented in the field and in North’s own program,” said Dr. Rachel Solemsaas, President, North Seattle College. “North’s Electronics program leads to high-demand, livable wage careers with ample advancement growth for students.”

Since its inception in 2021, the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program has provided funding annually to community colleges in North America to help prepare students for fulfilling career paths in sustainable building practices. Recipients can renew the grant for up to three years, creating long-term opportunities for program development.

With last year's funding, North Seattle College supported students studying Electronics with scholarships, embedded classroom and lab assistants to support student learning, and dedicated student support services. The renewed funding will continue to support scholarships, classroom support, and student support services, while also opening doors for new initiatives and projects.

In addition to financial support, Johnson Controls employees in the surrounding area will continue to engage with North Seattle College through mentoring programs. This collaboration provides students with valuable insights into the industry, helping them understand the promising career paths available to them upon completion of their training.

“The skilled trades offer a culture of continuous learning, where hands-on experience and evolving knowledge go hand in hand,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “Our investments in North Seattle College are equipping students with the skills and mindset needed to not only embrace this dynamic field but also to thrive and innovate within their own communities.”

For more information, visit Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program.