Johnson Controls has announced the participants selected for the company’s 2022 Community College Partnership Program, which will provide $1 million in philanthropic funding to nine community colleges across the United States, as well as the program's first Canadian institution. 

Introduced in 2021, the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program seeks to enroll and graduate students from historically underrepresented groups in local community college programs with a long-term goal of employment in well-paying jobs. 

Over a span of five years, the company says it will fund $15 million to nonprofit community colleges in support of their HVAC, fire, security and digital academic programs. In addition to the initial investment they receive, each college is eligible for a renewal grant for three years, allowing them to expand and serve future students. 

"After a successful and rewarding first year, we are proud to welcome our next cohort of schools into the Community College Partnership Program and continue our efforts in transforming students' lives as they pave the future of sustainable infrastructure," said Katie McGinty, chief sustainability officer and president, Johnson Controls Foundation at Johnson Controls. 

McGinty continues, "As a healthy buildings leader for well over a century, we are thrilled to share our expertise with these community colleges and help support their mission to educate these emerging leaders in their fields through digitally advanced training. The next generation of technicians will be mission-critical in realizing the ambitious infrastructure projects that will create a healthier community and planet." 

The 10 recipients receiving grants this year are in cities where Johnson Controls has a significant consumer base and employee presence. Funding for each community college differs based on its needs; in general, colleges will use the grants for the programs, personnel and equipment necessary to recruit and retain students and ensure they are successful in completion of a certificate or degree program. 

Local Johnson Controls employees in each market serve as volunteer educators and mentors, providing students with counseling and real-world experiences. The mentoring is directly incorporated into various college programs and provides a pathway for student internships and entry-level opportunities at Johnson Controls.