Dixie Technical College has been awarded a nearly $1 million Gable Grant from the Lowe’s Foundation to significantly expand its hands-on training for skilled trades in Southern Utah. This substantial investment is earmarked for the college’s construction programs, specifically targeting electrical and plumbing apprenticeships alongside HVACR technician training. The primary goals of this funding are to increase overall training capacity, modernize existing equipment, and ensure that a greater number of skilled professionals are prepared for careers that remain essential to the ongoing growth of the region.
The grant is part of a larger national initiative, with the Lowe’s Foundation awarding nearly $8 million to ten community and technical colleges across the United States. According to Jordan Rushton, President of Dixie Technical College, the funding acts as a vital catalyst for the growth of construction and apprenticeship programs. He noted that the partnership with the Lowe’s Foundation aligns with a shared vision of transforming lives through technical education while simultaneously strengthening the local community and the broader economy.
The funding will facilitate expanded laboratory training and the addition of advanced building systems equipment. A particularly innovative aspect of the project is the development of a mobile training lab, designed to increase access to real-world learning experiences. Construction Technology Director Ashlee Tengberg emphasized that industry partners frequently request graduates with advanced skills. She stated that this investment provides the necessary equipment, curriculum, and resources to meet that demand, benefiting both current and future students as well as the local companies that hire them.
This investment arrives at a critical time for Washington County, which continues to see significant residential and commercial development. As new infrastructure projects and businesses expand, the demand for qualified plumbers, electricians, and HVACR technicians is steadily rising. Dixie Tech has a strong track record in this area, with 92 percent of its graduates either entering employment in their field of study or continuing their education.
The Lowe’s Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization, aims to solve the critical skilled trades labor shortage. By 2035, the foundation plans to invest $250 million to develop 250,000 people for these essential careers. For more information about the technical training programs available in St. George, visit dixietech.edu. To learn more about the foundation’s initiatives, visit lowesfoundation.org.
