Since its inaugural year in 2021, Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program has been on track to donate up to $15 million by the end of 2026 to expand access to educational programs in the HVAC, fire, security and digital disciplines.

The program engages students from historically underrepresented groups and supports them in preparing for and embarking on career paths in sustainable building practices.

The three cohorts of 30 community colleges were nominated by employees and are located in cities where Johnson Controls has a significant customer base and employee presence. Employees of Johnson Controls serve as volunteer educators and student mentors, providing advice and real-world experience. Program participants are also eligible for internship and full-time employment opportunities with Johnson Controls.

Each college received a grant for equipment and/or funding valued up to $100,000; the grant is potentially renewable for up to three years.

“As a leader in green building and sustainable infrastructure, we believe the future of innovation starts with giving students from all backgrounds opportunities so they can help build better tomorrows for every community,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “We couldn’t be more excited to continue to support and train the next generation of technicians in sustainable building industries.”

• See what the Community College of Baltimore County says about the program.
• Learn about the program at Durham College.