PBSC receives $1 million for skilled trades training

Palm Beach State College is one of 10 community and technical colleges nationwide to receive Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants to support skilled trades workforce development initiatives. Announced by the Lowe’s Foundation, the grants are the first in a five-year, $50 million commitment to help prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers. This investment will pay for programs in appliance repair, carpentry, construction, electrical, HVAC and plumbing.

Palm Beach State College received the $1 million grant based on its comprehensive plan to expand the impact of its degree and certificate programs in construction trades and management. Putting the grant’s mission into action, PBSC will reach out to residents throughout Palm Beach County to recruit, train and develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople, including groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the trades. PBSC aims to grow its number of graduates who are ready to build and revitalize homes, neighborhoods and infrastructure with the goal to increase Palm Beach County’s skilled workforce by 1,500 by 2028.

“Our partnership with the Lowe’s Foundation paves a path to a better future for our young people through the college’s trades programs,” PBSC President Ava L. Parker, J.D., said in a news release. “Serving this vital initiative, we are excited to provide this opportunity to our county, one that ensures career readiness and enhances the economic mobility of our students and their families. I would like to express my gratitude to the Lowe’s Foundation for its generosity and belief in our mission to transform lives and strengthen the community.”