St. Petersburg College: New Grant Strengthens SPC Lineworker Program

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — A new Duke Energy grant will strengthen St. Petersburg College’s mission to fill local jobs by training the future workforce.

Duke Energy is currently investing in workforce programs in the energy sector to help build the next generation workforce, as well as create access to training and job skills programs that meet community needs. Duke Energy’s recent $50,000 donation to the college’s Foundation for the Electrical Lineworker program is the latest contribution to the partnership between Duke and St. Petersburg College.

SPC’s Lineworker Program, a 14-week program at SPC’s Allstate Center in St. Petersburg, partially funded by an initial $100,000 grant from Duke Energy, debuted in March 2021 and graduated its first cohort in May 2021. Florida has the fourth highest number of lineworker jobs in the nation, with a median salary around $53,000 a year.

The Lineworker program is just one of SPC’s programs that offer fast training in dozens of different programs, where students can be ready to work in high-demand jobs with great pay in just a few weeks. Almost 1000 students have taken advantage of Rapid Credentialing opportunities since June 2020, with well over a half a million dollars in scholarships offered to almost half of those students.

“These programs have already made a tangible impact on the community and several different industries in the region,” Jason Boys, SPC’s Director of Workforce Education, said.

Boys said the Duke Energy grant will further strengthen an impactive program.

“The original 100k was great for building the training yard and purchasing equipment and setting up dedicated classrooms,” Boys said. “We can use the $50,000 to continue construction and grow the training yard. A large portion will go to direct student support, like climbing boots, protective gear and more. This new grant speaks to Duke’s dedication to the sustainability of the program.”