The New Castle Career Center (NCCC) Building Trades Program is building more than structures this year - it is building opportunities for the community and the future of the students.
With support from a $20,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation, NCCC is launching the NCCC Building Trades and Duke Energy Support Henry County Citizens in Need initiative. The funding will power the Duke Energy–New Castle Career Center Health, Safety, & Energy Improvements Initiative, a program that helps local homeowners while giving students meaningful, hands-on experience during the 2026–2027 school year.
This program was already underway before Henry County sustained unprecedented flooding in mid-August. Now the program will have even greater impact and importance.
The Duke Energy-NCCC Partnership
The initiative reflects a shared commitment between NCCC and Duke Energy to invest not only in homes but also in the people in our community.
“This partnership allows us to make meaningful improvements to the health, safety, and energy efficiency of homes for local families who may not otherwise have the resources to complete these projects,” said Mackenzie Jackson, Director of New Castle Career Center. “At the same time, it provides Building Trades students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for careers in the skilled trades.”
Through the initiative, local residents can apply for assistance with qualifying home improvement projects. Applications will be reviewed based on several factors, including health and safety needs, energy-efficiency improvements, financial need, project feasibility, and the educational value the project provides to Building Trades students.
“The impact extends far beyond the grant funding,” Jackson added. “Students gain valuable experience working on real construction projects, developing technical skills, professionalism, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Families benefit from safer and more energy-efficient homes, while local employers benefit from a stronger pipeline of skilled workers.”
Hands-On Learning For Building Trades Students
In addition to helping local residents, the initiative offers NCCC Building Trades students the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in residential construction, home repairs and improvements, safety practices, energy-efficient building techniques, and direct work with homeowners and community partners. They will also develop technical skills, from carpentry and framing to installing materials, using tools safely, and essential workplace skills.
“Students will be involved in every stage of the project under the instructor's supervision,” said Don Criswell, Building Trades instructor. “They will help plan the work, estimate materials, practice construction techniques, and complete repairs and improvements while following industry standards and safety procedures. This gives students experience that closely mirrors what they will encounter on an actual job site.”
Building Future Workforce While Helping Local Families
Through the program, Henry County residents can apply for assistance with qualifying home improvement projects. Priority will be given to projects that support families with the greatest need and that align with the grant’s goals. Approved projects will receive funding for eligible materials and supplies needed to complete the improvements. There will be no cost to homeowners for approved work completed through the grant program.
“This initiative creates a win-win opportunity,” Criswell said. “Families receive needed home improvements that increase safety, health, and energy efficiency, while students gain valuable real-world experience that prepares them for employment or apprenticeship opportunities after graduation.”
NCCC students already benefit from strong career pathways, including direct entry opportunities into the Carpenter’s Union.
“At Duke Energy, we know that the investments we make today can make a difference for years to come,” said Loree Elswick, President of the Duke Energy Foundation. “It is a privilege for us to support organizations that make our communities vibrant places to live and work.”