Johnson Controls renews support for Penn College students

Johnson Controls is providing Pennsylvania College of Technology with a $100,000 grant for the second consecutive year to support students seeking in-demand careers.

The grant is part of Johnson Controls’ Community College Partnership Program, a nationwide initiative that aims to provide $15 million by the end of 2026 to help students from historically underrepresented groups prepare for careers related to sustainable building practices.

“We are honored to continue to strengthen our partnership with Johnson Controls and its Community College Partnership Program. In addition to important scholarship funding, this grant offers tremendous benefits for our students through mentorship, field experiences and networking,” said Kyle A. Smith, senior executive director of college relations. “The support of Johnson Controls for our Tomorrow Makers is inspiring, as the students build their skill set to be the next generation of workforce leaders."

Penn College will use its grant to offer $3,000 scholarships to 33 students seeking degrees in heating, ventilation and air conditioning; machining; and welding. Remaining funds will be devoted to professional development options for the scholarship recipients.

Last year’s grant funded scholarships for HVAC students, the purchase of A2L refrigeration equipment and networking opportunities.

“It’s gratifying to receive such substantial support once again from Johnson Controls. We are excited that, this year, students from additional academic disciplines will benefit from the company’s generosity,” said Ellyn A. Lester, assistant dean of construction and architectural technologies. “Combining scholarships with access to Johnson Controls’ professionals and leaders provides students with a priceless opportunity to cultivate a rewarding career path.”

A Corporate Tomorrow Maker and member of the Visionary Society ($100,000-$499,999) on the college’s Donor Wall, Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology and software and is the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings.

“The skilled trades offer a culture of continuous learning, where hands-on experience and evolving knowledge go hand-in-hand,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “Our investments in Penn College are equipping students with the skills and mindset needed to not only embrace this dynamic field but also to thrive and innovate within their own communities.”

For information about Penn College’s HVAC, machining and welding degrees and other programs offered by the School of Engineering Technologies, call 570-327-4520 or visit www.pct.edu/et.

Penn College is a national leader in applied technology education. Email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222 for more information.