Johnson Controls has announced a $3 million investment in its Community College Partnership Program, marking the fifth year of the initiative. The funding will be distributed across 30 community colleges in North America to support workforce development in HVAC, fire protection, security, and digital technologies.
In the 2024–2025 academic year, the program supported 554 student scholarships and has helped launch more than 1,000 careers since its inception in 2021. To date, 4,998 students have enrolled, and 1,046 have graduated from the program. Johnson Controls employees contributed 846 volunteer hours during the current school year, supporting students through mentoring and guest instruction.
The program is designed to create clear pathways to technical careers by partnering with nonprofit community colleges. Grants are renewable for up to three years and typically fund recruitment, retention, and student success initiatives. Colleges work with Johnson Controls to enhance academic offerings using industry insights and expertise.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for HVAC-R mechanics and installers is expected to grow by 8% through 2034, with approximately 40,100 openings annually. The Community College Partnership aims to help meet this demand by increasing access to training programs and connecting students with real-world experience and career opportunities.
“Through our collaboration with these colleges, we’re creating real career pathways and driving meaningful progress in closing the skilled trades gap across North America,” said Katie McGinty, vice president and chief sustainability and external relations officer, Johnson Controls.
The company plans to invest up to $15 million in the program by the end of 2026.
