J.F. Ingram State Technical College (ISTC) has been selected as a recipient of the highly competitive Lowe's Gable Grant, making history as the first college in Alabama to receive this transformative funding. The grant positions ISTC among an elite network of only 60 organizations nationwide working to address America's critical skilled trades worker shortage.
The Lowe's Foundation announced the latest round of Gable Grant recipients on July 18, 2025, as part of its expanded $43 million investment in skilled trades education. ISTC was one of only 12 new institutions selected from across the United States, joining a prestigious cohort that includes community and technical colleges from North Carolina, Rhode Island, Florida, California, Virginia, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, and Texas.
Advancing Electrical and Industrial Maintenance Education
The grant will significantly enhance ISTC's electrical and industrial maintenance programs by introducing cutting-edge virtual reality simulation software and expanding shop-based learning opportunities. This technological advancement will provide students with immersive, hands-on training experiences that mirror real-world workplace scenarios.
"The Lowe's Gable Grant represents a transformative opportunity for our students and our institution," said Annette Funderburk, President, at J.F. Ingram State Technical College. "The virtual reality simulation software will allow our students to practice complex electrical procedures in a safe, controlled environment before applying their skills in actual work settings."
The enhanced programming will equip students with invaluable technical skills and industry-recognized expertise, providing them with a competitive advantage in the job market. The vocational training program directly supports successful reentry and long-term career pathways for Alabama's incarcerated population and individuals under supervised release.
Addressing Critical Workforce Needs
According to the National Association of Homebuilders, the skilled labor gap drives a $10 billion annual economic loss in the housing industry. The Lowe's Foundation's investment in institutions like ISTC directly addresses this critical need by preparing the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
"Collectively, we are writing a comeback story for the skilled trades industry," said Janice Dupré, Lowe's executive vice president of human resources and chair of the Lowe's Foundation. "Through our Gable Grants network, these schools join a community of innovators helping one another effectively recruit, train and employ the people America needs to revitalize our infrastructure."
Part of a Broader National Initiative
Since launching the Gable Grants program in 2023, the Lowe's Foundation has invested $43 million across 28 states. The grants are part of a five-year, $50 million commitment to help community and technical colleges and nonprofits recruit, train and prepare 50,000 trades professionals across carpentry and construction, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and property maintenance.
ISTC's selection reflects the institution's commitment to excellence in vocational education and its unique mission of serving Alabama's incarcerated population. The college's programs not only provide essential workforce development but also offer pathways to successful reintegration and long-term career success.
Looking Forward
The implementation of the grant funding will begin immediately, with new virtual reality equipment and expanded training facilities expected to be operational in the coming academic year. Students enrolled in electrical and industrial maintenance programs will be among the first to benefit from these enhanced learning opportunities.
This historic achievement underscores ISTC's position as a leader in innovative correctional education and workforce development. The college continues to demonstrate that quality technical education can transform lives and strengthen communities, one student at a time.
For more information about J.F. Ingram State Technical College and its programs, visit www.istc.edu.
About The Lowe's Foundation
The Lowe's Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) organization founded by Lowe's Companies, Inc., dedicated to developing a community of skilled tradespeople to build and revitalize homes, neighborhoods and infrastructure for the future. From 2023 through 2028, the foundation is investing $50 million to help prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers.