Johnson Controls awards $3 million to help build the next generation of skilled trades professionals

• Program has supported more than 5,800 students, helping build the skilled workforce needed for critical industries nationwide

MILWAUKEE, Sept. 21, 2026 – Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI), a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, today announced $3 million in grants to 30 U.S. community colleges for the 2026-27 academic year through its Community College Partnership Program (CCPP). The investment supports efforts to expand access to technical education, strengthen workforce development programs and help students pursue careers in high-demand fields.

Employers nationwide are facing growing demand for skilled workers in manufacturing, construction and other technical professions. Community colleges play a vital role in helping students gain the knowledge and experience needed to fill these positions while supporting local economic growth.

Since launching CCPP in 2021, Johnson Controls has invested $15 million in community colleges and technical schools, partnering with 38 institutions nationwide to support more than 5,800 students pursue educational and career opportunities. The program has celebrated more than 2,300 graduates and helped connect talent with in-demand skilled trades careers, while thousands of additional students continue progressing through academic programs and gaining the skills needed to enter the workforce in the years ahead.

In 2025, Johnson Controls hired 108 new graduates from CCPP schools, highlighting the program's role in creating direct pathways from education to employment.

“Across the country, employers are facing a growing need for skilled talent, while many students are looking for clear pathways to meaningful careers,” said Todd Grabowski, president, Americas, Johnson Controls. “As we reach our $15 million investment milestone, we remain committed to creating opportunities for individuals to gain practical experience, build indemand capabilities and pursue meaningful careers."

The CCPP helps students pursue careers in HVAC, fire protection, security and digital technologies through a combination of financial support, industry expertise, mentoring and hands-on learning experiences. Beyond supporting educational programs, funding can help address barriers that often stand between students and graduation, enabling institutions to respond to learners' real-world needs like emergency transportation or childcare needs, and create more accessible pathways to career success. Johnson Controls employees provide mentorship, career guidance and exposure to real-world job opportunities, helping students develop both technical and professional skills.

2026-2027 Community College Partnership Award Recipients

Johnson Controls provides multi-year support to participating institutions, helping create sustained opportunities for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Funding is tailored to support student success, helping learners access training, complete educational programs, gain hands-on experience and prepare for careers in high-demand technical fields. Institutions can apply the funding in ways that best address the needs of their students and communities.

Local Johnson Controls employees play an active role in the program, serving as volunteer mentors and guest educators. Their involvement brings real-world experience into the classroom and helps students build professional networks, develop workplace-ready skills through real-world experiences and learn from mentors working in the industry.

2026-27 Recipients (* indicates program renewal with Johnson Controls):

• Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology – Boston*
• Clover Park Technical College – Lakewood, Wash.
• Cypress College – Cypress, Calif.
• Henry Ford College – Detroit*
• Honolulu Community College – Honolulu*
• Hillsborough College – Tampa, Fla.
• Los Rios Community College – Sacramento, Calif.*
• Midlands Technical College – Irma, S.C.*
• Riverside Community College – Riverside, Calif.
• Rosedale Technical College – Pittsburgh

To learn more about the program, including for a complete list of grant recipients, visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/corporate-sustainability/social/philanthropy/community-college-partnership

MEDIA CONTACT:

Matthew Queen
Direct: +1 414.379.6929
Email: media@jci.com

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About Johnson Controls:

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon emissions, and operate with the precision and resilience required in rapidly expanding industries such as data centers, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and higher education.

For more than 140 years, Johnson Controls has delivered performance where it really matters. Backed by advanced technology, lifecycle services and an industry-leading field organization, we elevate customer performance, turn goals into real-world results and help move society forward.
Visit johnsoncontrols.com for more information and follow @Johnsoncontrols on social platforms.