COLUMBIA, S.C. — Columbia-based Midlands Technical College (MTC) has been awarded $1 million dollars by the Lowe's Foundation, an independent non-profit founded by Lowe's Companies home improvement stores, as part of the company's Gable Grants program.
MCT will use the money to expand the existing Building Construction Technology program that focuses on job training for carpentry and construction, HVAC, electric, plumbing and appliance repair careers by expanding facilities, doubling teaching capacity and purchasing new tools and equipment.
“Receiving a Gable Grant from the Lowe’s Foundation will allow Midlands Technical College to expand facilities and double our teaching capacity so that more students can get the training they need for a great career,” says Robbie Sharpe, building construction technology program director. “There is significant demand for well-prepared building construction program graduates, and through this partnership with Lowe’s, we are addressing a critical workforce shortage here in the Midlands of South Carolina.”
Since awarding its first grants one year ago, the Lowe's Foundation has expanded skilled trades career pathways through its growing network of 35 community colleges and nonprofits in rural and urban communities across 27 states.