The Careers Electric™  initiative is a first-of-its-kind partnership designed to strengthen North Carolina's electrical workforce by expanding opportunities for high school students to explore, prepare for, and enter high-demand careers in the skilled trades. Through twelve Summer Electrical Academies hosted by community colleges across the state, students gain hands-on technical instruction, industry-recognized credentials, college credit opportunities, and work-based learning experiences while being registered as youth apprentices. The initiative brings together employers, community colleges, K–12 school districts, workforce organizations, and state leaders to create a seamless pathway from education to employment, helping meet North Carolina's growing demand for skilled electrical workers.

The Siemens Foundation and ABB are making significant investments in Careers Electric because the demand for electrical talent is accelerating across virtually every sector of the economy, including advanced manufacturing, energy, healthcare, transportation, telecommunications, and construction. As experienced electricians retire and new industries continue to grow, employers face an increasing need for a skilled workforce capable of building, maintaining, and powering North Carolina's critical infrastructure. Through a combined investment of more than $10.5 million, Siemens Foundation and ABB are partnering with North Carolina to establish a national model for electrical workforce development, one that prepares the next generation of electricians while strengthening the state's economic competitiveness and creating meaningful career opportunities for young people.

The Summer Electrical Academies are designed to remove barriers to participation while providing students with a comprehensive introduction to electrical careers. In addition to earning college credit and industry-recognized credentials, participants receive a $2,000 completion stipend, transportation assistance, books and course fees, personal protective equipment, tools, and supplies needed for training. Students also benefit from wraparound supports such as career coaching, employability skills, financial literacy, and connections to employers through work-based learning experiences, facility tours, and mentoring. By combining financial support, hands-on instruction, and direct exposure to industry, the academies enable students to focus on learning while exploring multiple pathways into Registered Apprenticeships, continued community college education, or immediate employment in North Carolina's growing electrical workforce.

Contact NCBCEadmin@nc.gov for more information about Careers Electric™.