PINEVILLE, La. – Today, Cleco committed $1.0 million to Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC) to help fund training and curriculum development, as well as scholarships for students in manufacturing-related programs.

“Cleco’s investment in CLTCC will connect our central Louisiana community in so many ways. It will develop a workforce of manufacturing employees and create a job-ready workforce for our company and for our customers which will, in turn, support economic development,” said Bill Fontenot, Cleco president and CEO.  "Additionally, our donation will help attract and retain outstanding faculty members and ensure students are prepared and set-up for a successful career.” 

Initially, Cleco’s contribution will fund:

• Cleco Power of a Promise scholarships which will cover full tuition costs, books and a stipend for incidentals.  In turn, the selected students will work 10 hours a week at Cleco’s Brame Energy Center to gain hands-on experience and further ready the students for a successful entry into the workforce. 

• Cleco Diversity Scholars Program which will award scholarships to diverse students taking courses in the college’s manufacturing area.

• Curriculum development and supplement professorships to help support education of a workforce capable of contributing. 

“Cleco’s generous donation will allow the college to leverage the funds for matching programs further impacting the gift,” said Jimmy Sawtelle, CLTCC chancellor. “Cleco understands and supports the workforce needs across central Louisiana and beyond, as well as the importance of a skilled workforce. On behalf of our students and stakeholders, CLTCC is sincerely grateful for this extraordinarily generous investment.”  

To learn more about Cleco in the community visit cleco.com or follow us on Facebook at @ClecoPower.