Duke Energy Foundation Awards $20,000 Grant to Spartanburg Community College Foundation to Launch Rural HVAC Workforce Pipeline in Union County

July 27, 2026

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SPARTANBURG, SC – The Spartanburg Community College Foundation has received a $20,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation to support the launch of a new high school HVAC training program and dual enrollment pathway in Union County, creating new opportunities for students to prepare for careers in one of the region's most in-demand industries.

The grant will fund the purchase of a portion of the six required air conditioning training units and electrical trainers needed to establish a hands-on HVAC training lab at Union County High School. The program will provide students with foundational HVAC instruction aligned with Spartanburg Community College's HVAC certificate and associate degree programs, creating a seamless pathway from high school into college and the workforce.

Currently, students in Union County interested in HVAC careers must travel to SCC's Giles or Cherokee County campuses to begin training. By bringing instruction directly to Union County High School, the program removes transportation barriers, expands access to technical education, and strengthens the local workforce pipeline in a rural community.

"Strong partnerships create stronger futures. We are proud to collaborate with Spartanburg Community College to bring an HVAC program to Union County Career & Technology Center, equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in today's workforce,: said Dr. Randy Worthy, Union County Director of the Career & Technology Center.

"This investment from the Duke Energy Foundation represents more than new equipment—it represents new opportunities for students and for the future workforce in Union County," said Dr. Michael Mikota, President of Spartanburg Community College. "By expanding access to high-quality technical education closer to home, we are helping students explore rewarding careers while building the skilled workforce our region's employers need. We are grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for partnering with us to create lasting opportunities for students and our community."

The program is expected to serve approximately 18 to 36 students annually during its initial phase, with plans to expand through dual enrollment opportunities and continued partnerships with local employers. Students will receive hands-on instruction in system operation, electrical principles, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repair while earning college-aligned coursework that prepares them for continued education or apprenticeship opportunities.

The HVAC pathway addresses a critical workforce need while increasing educational access in Union County, where many residents face economic and geographic barriers to technical training. The long-term vision includes expanding employer partnerships, apprenticeships, and career readiness opportunities that strengthen the region's skilled trades workforce.

Find out more about the SCC Foundation