Strengthening pathways for careers in HVAC, welding, security and digital technologies
CLARKSTON, Ga. – Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) has received a grant for $100,000 for the 2025-2026 academic year as part of the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program. This latest grant and the combined $390,000 over the last several years are part of Johnson Controls’ nationwide initiative that aims to donate up to $15 million to community colleges by the end of 2026 to expand access to high-demand technical fields. This funding strengthens on-campus training and educational pathways for emerging leaders in the HVAC, digital, fire and security sectors. In partnership with Johnson Controls, the global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, GPTC continues to invest strategically in closing the skilled trades gap. Together, they are empowering the next generation of skilled professionals and building stronger, more resilient communities.
“Johnson Controls has been an incredible partner in expanding workforce opportunities in our region,” said Dr. Tavarez Holston, President of GPTC. “This investment underscores the importance of innovation and sustainability in technical education, and together we are ensuring our students gain the skills to excel in high-demand careers while strengthening the communities we serve.”
Launched in 2021, the Community College Partnership Program is designed to support students by creating clear pathways to careers in high-demand technical fields. For example, the Bureau for Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, which includes information on about 600 occupations, notes the need for HVACR mechanics and installers is expected to grow 8% and add about 40,100 openings per year through 2034. The Community College Partnership Program is designed to in part address this need by meeting students where they are. Johnson Controls works with nonprofit community colleges to strengthen academic offerings in HVAC, fire protection, security, and digital technologies through unique industry knowledge with the long-term goal of helping students secure family-supporting jobs. Each college receives an initial grant and is eligible for three years of renewal funding, enabling them to grow their programs and reach more students.
A portion of the renewed funding will provide direct scholarships for students pursuing degrees, diplomas and technical certificates in high-demand fields such as Building Automation Systems, Commercial Refrigeration, Air Conditioning Technology, Welding and Joining Technology, and Sustainable Technologies. Each term, up to five students are eligible to receive as much as $1,000 for full-time enrollment or $500 for part-time enrollment, helping reduce financial barriers and ensuring more students can complete programs that lead to rewarding technical careers. Additional funding will go towards faculty support, retention efforts and software and lab enhancements.
Beyond financial support, Johnson Controls employees from the surrounding area will continue to engage with GPTC through mentoring programs. This ongoing collaboration offers students valuable industry insights and guidance from technicians currently working in the field, helping students explore rewarding career opportunities available after completing their training.
“The skilled trades represent a future of continuous learning and real-world impact,” said Anthony Outland, market general manager, Georgia at Johnson Controls. “Our investment in GPTC reflects our commitment to equipping students not just with technical skills, but with the mindset to lead, innovate and strengthen their communities in a rapidly evolving industry. By empowering students to build meaningful careers, we’re also helping them create lasting opportunity for their families, laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient future for generations to come.”
For more information about the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program, visit: