City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) has received $100,000 as part of the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership program, which aims to equip our students with in-demand knowledge and skills that will support employment and a pathway for life-long careers upon graduation. In addition to the funding, Johnson Controls employees will support CCC through volunteering and mentorships, providing students with real-world experience, internship opportunities and professional networking connections.

The funds are designated for Kennedy-King College which is part of CCC. The college will use its funding to establish an HVAC certification boot camp, develop a job shadowing and field experience course, as well as provide students with their own HVAC toolsets.

“We are grateful for this grant that will support many students on their pathway to upskill and find their career trajectory,” said Juan Salgado, Chancellor of City Colleges of Chicago. “For many of our students, their focus is on career relevance, academic quality and flexible programing. With the help of Johnson Controls, City Colleges of Chicago is  better able to meet these academic needs of our students.”

City Colleges of Chicago is one of ten community colleges receiving grants for the 2021‒2022 academic year. The grant is provided by Johnson Controls in an effort to expand associate degree and certificate programs in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), fire and security and digital building automation systems, all areas where the U.S. Bureau of Labor is predicting an increased need for skilled trades expertise in the coming years. Kennedy-King College will use the funding for the following student supports:

  • Student access and completers scholarship
  • Industry training and certification bootcamps
  • Job shadowing experiences
  • Student toolset scholarship

“Johnson Controls is proud to build upon our significant presence in the city by partnering with CCC on the Community College Partnership Program. We believe the program will empower people to build life-long careers that will transform their lives and the city,” said Grady Crosby, VP of Public Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer at Johnson Controls. “Just as smart, healthy buildings are critical to our well-being, well-educated and trained technicians are crucial to keeping our environments operating safely and efficiently. As a leader in the building industry for over a century, Johnson Controls is honored to share our expertise with the country’s leading community colleges.”

The full list of grant recipients can be found here.

To learn more about Johnson Controls strategic approach to philanthropy and volunteerism, please visit https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/corporate-sustainability/community.