New Bern, N.C. – Duke Energy and Craven Community College (CCC) today announced a $167,242 investment from the Duke Energy Foundation. The funds will be used to purchase 10 Nida Avionics Trainers for the CCC’s Aviation Technology Systems program offered through its Institute of Aeronautical Technology at their Havelock campus.

The Nida A3-AMT, AET Avionics Programs Systems training equipment provides 20 students with hands-on, simulated training ranging from basic to advanced aviation avionics systems, including troubleshooting aircraft electrical systems that control flight instruments, communications systems and environmental systems.

“The Duke Energy grant affords us a great opportunity to enhance our existing aviation systems technology associates degree program and our workforce development training certification program,” said Wally Calabrese, dean of learning and operations, CCC Havelock/Cherry Point Campus. “The new equipment also allows us to take the first steps toward offering a new avionics associate degree program in 2017.”

“Craven Community College is committed to training a workforce equipped to meet today’s business needs, and we are pleased to partner with their Institute of Aeronautical Technology to attract and retain talented workers in this region for years to come,” said Duke Energy District Manager Millie Chalk.

This grant is part of Duke Energy’s $30 million investment in North Carolina’s Community Colleges’ focus on technical education and support of business and industry. Individual community colleges can apply for funds through the NC Community Foundation. Applications will be reviewed by a committee of representatives from Duke Energy, NC Community College System and NC Department of Commerce.

About Craven Community College

Founded in 1965, Craven Community College is part of the North Carolina Community College System. With campuses in New Bern and Havelock-Cherry Point, Craven serves about 3,200 curriculum students and more than 10,000 continuing education students each year. The college offers a wide range of associate degree and certificate programs, as well as college transfer courses, career and occupational offerings, partnerships with four-year universities, specialized workforce training options, developmental studies and basic skills classes. Craven Early College High School programs are available on both campuses. Craven is also home to Public Radio East, one of the few community colleges nationally with this distinction. For more information about the college, visit www.cravencc.edu.

About Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to address the needs vital to the health of its communities. Annually, the Foundation funds more than $25 million in charitable grants, with a focus on education, environment, economic and workforce development, and community impact. Duke Energy has long been committed to supporting the communities where its customers and employees live and work, and will continue to build on this legacy. For more information, visit www.duke-energy.com/foundation.

Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Duke Energy is a Fortune 125 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com.