Johnson Controls continues support for Penn College students
Thursday, November 20, 2025
For the third consecutive year, Pennsylvania College of Technology is the recipient of a $100,000 grant from Johnson Controls that aims to support students seeking in-demand careers.
The latest grant, and the $300,000 total during the past several years, are part of Johnson Controls’ Community College Partnership Program, a nationwide initiative that aims to donate up to $15 million by the end of 2026 to expand access to high-demand technical fields. The funding strengthens on-campus training and educational pathways for emerging leaders in the HVAC, digital, fire and security sectors.
Pennsylvania College of Technology students seeking degrees in machining; heating, ventilation and air conditioning; and welding are eligible to receive $3,000 scholarships, thanks to a $100,000 grant from Johnson Controls. It’s the third year in a row that Penn College has obtained the grant from Johnson Controls’ Community College Partnership Program, an initiative that supports students pursuing in-demand careers.
“The skilled trades represent a future of continuous learning and real-world impact,” said Susan Ranft, vice president of human resources, Americas at Johnson Controls. “Our investment in Penn College 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.”
Like last year, Penn College will use its grant to offer $3,000 scholarships to 33 students pursuing degrees in heating, ventilation and air conditioning; machining; and welding. Remaining funds will be devoted to professional development options for the scholarship recipients.
“We are thankful for the continued support of Johnson Controls and its Community College Partnership Program. The scholarship support creates access not only to a high-quality applied technology education, but also to a wealth of resources, experiences and professional development opportunities offered by our partners at Johnson Controls,” said Kyle A. Smith, senior executive director of college relations. “The support is critical for our students as they build their skill set to be the next generation of workforce leaders.”
“Johnson Controls’ ongoing commitment to Penn College is a tremendous benefit for our students,” added Ellyn A. Lester, assistant dean of construction and architectural technologies. “The combination of scholarships and mentorship provides students with a rich opportunity to develop a fulfilling career path. We are grateful for the company’s support.”
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 company is a Penn College Corporate Tomorrow Maker and member of the Visionary Society ($100,000-$499,999) on the school’s Donor Wall.
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. Visit www.pct.edu, email admissions@pct.edu or call toll-free 800-367-9222.