Duke Energy announced on Mar. 19 that it is awarding $50,000 each to five Florida colleges through the Duke Energy Foundation to support their electrical lineworker training programs. The recipients are Lake-Sumter State College, Seminole State College of Florida, Valencia College, St. Petersburg College, and South Florida State College.
The funding aims to help students gain industry-recognized skills needed for entry-level positions at electric utilities. These programs offer training lasting from seven weeks up to 18 months and are designed to create a steady pipeline of talent for the energy sector.
Melissa Seixas, state president of Duke Energy Florida, said, “Lineworkers are the heart of our communities, helping keep the power flowing for our family members, friends and neighbors every single day. I’m proud of Duke Energy’s partnerships with such well-respected institutions and grateful for all they do to help introduce so many men and women to what I truly believe is one of the most celebrated and rewarding career paths.”
Dr. Laura Byrd of Lake-Sumter State College said scholarships supported by this grant “not only remove financial barriers but also open the door to a valuable career pathway, one that equips students with the skills, confidence, and purpose to serve their communities in a vital industry.” Dr. Jennifer Keefe from Seminole State College said funding for Project POWER is crucial “to continue to train line workers to serve the needs of our community for years to come.” Kathleen Plinske of Valencia College highlighted more than two decades of collaboration with Duke Energy and said this grant demonstrates “their continued commitment to our students.” Belinthia Berry from St. Petersburg College called the partnership “a powerful investment in the future of our region,” while Emily W. Dabolt from South Florida State College described it as “a gamechanger” that ensures students gain real-world experience.
Between 2022 and 2025, Duke Energy hired more than 100 graduates from these types of programs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for electrical lineworkers is projected to grow by 7% between 2024 and 2034—faster than average for all occupations.
Duke Energy Florida supplies electricity across a large service area in Florida and is part of Duke Energy Corporation headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.
