Program Spotlight Archives - 91¿첥 /category/spotlights/program-spotlight/ See Yourself Here Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:08:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 /wp-content/uploads/2026/06/cropped-91¿첥-icon-512x512-1-150x150.png Program Spotlight Archives - 91¿첥 /category/spotlights/program-spotlight/ 32 32 New Pathway to RN for Working Nurses /new-pathway-to-rn-for-working-nurses/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 16:05:46 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/new-pathway-to-rn-for-working-nurses/ CCC is expanding access to nursing education with the launch of a new nights and weekends LPN-to-ADN program. It is designed specifically for working Licensed Practical Nurses who want to advance their careers and earn their Associate Degree Nursing. The first cohort will begin classes in January and graduate in December, completing the...

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New Pathway to RN for Working Nurses

CCC is expanding access to nursing education with the launch of a new nights and weekends LPN-to-ADN program. It is designed specifically for working Licensed Practical Nurses who want to advance their careers and earn their Associate Degree Nursing. The first cohort will begin classes in January and graduate in December, completing the program in just one year.

The enhanced format responds to the needs of today’s healthcare workforce. While the College’s current LPN-to-ADN option takes four semesters and blends LPN students with traditional second-year ADN students, the new nights and weekends track creates a dedicated cohort exclusively for LPNs. This separation ensures students learn alongside peers with similar clinical backgrounds and professional experience.

“Mixing experienced LPNs with students who have never worked in a clinical setting can create challenges,” said Anna Ledford, director of nursing. “This new structure allows us to tailor instruction, streamline clinical training and honor the real-world experience these nurses already possess.”

The nights-and-weekends design makes it possible for LPNs to continue working while progressing toward their RN credential. Students will attend class two evenings per week, with one in-person session and one virtual session, and complete clinical rotations on weekends. In addition, the clinical hour requirements are reduced to 336 hours, acknowledging students’ prior nursing experience.

Interest in the LPN-to-ADN pathway is already strong, with 100 applications submitted this year. The ADN program can currently accept up to 175 students, including LPN-to-ADN students. However, space constraints limit the program to less than that number. With the curriculum adjustments and the addition of two full-time instructors dedicated to the new nights and weekends pathway, the LPN-to-ADN program accepted 48 students.

The new, one-year program includes two semesters of nursing courses, plus an optional summer term for students who may need to complete prerequisites.

The admission process remains the same and uses a points-based application system. Students must:

  • Hold an active LPN license in good standing with no findings
  • Verify five years of LPN work experience, or be a recent graduate of 91¿첥’s Practical Nursing program (with additional points awarded), or have a TEAS score of 65 or higher
  • Have completed ENG 111
  • Hold an unweighted high-school GPA of 2.8 or higher

CCC also reserves seats for the top five graduates of its Practical Nursing program who choose to continue directly into the LPN-to-ADN pathway.

The new nights and weekends pathway is the first step toward fully separating LPN-to-ADN students from the traditional ADN program, allowing the College to better support students along both pathways. While the nighttime track begins in January, future plans include adding a day LPN-to-ADN program once additional space becomes available.

“This program gives working LPNs a realistic path to becoming registered nurses without putting their lives or careers on hold,” Ledford said. “It’s a win for students, employers, and our community.”

Learn more about all the health sciences programs offered at 91¿첥 by visiting the Health Sciences page of the website.

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Lifelike Mannequins Enhance Nursing Program Experience /mannequins-enhance-nursing-program-experience/ Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/mannequins-enhance-nursing-program-experience/ CCC (91¿첥) has taken another step forward in enhancing its nursing program by acquiring new, highly realistic mannequins. These state-of-the-art mannequins are designed to provide students with a more immersive and lifelike training experience, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world clinical settings. A New Level of Realism The new...

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Lifelike Mannequins Enhance Nursing Program Experience

CCC (91¿첥) has taken another step forward in enhancing its nursing program by acquiring new, highly realistic mannequins. These state-of-the-art mannequins are designed to provide students with a more immersive and lifelike training experience, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world clinical settings.

A New Level of Realism

The new mannequins, custom-designed to reflect diverse patient demographics, bring a new level of authenticity to nursing simulations. Their lifelike skin texture includes natural features such as moles, fingernails, and sewn-in hair, making them far more realistic than traditional models. Their weight and limb flexibility mimic actual patients, allowing students to experience the true physicality of patient care, such as performing skin assessments and repositioning a patient.

“These mannequins are designed to promote realism,” said Lori Waris, simulation lab coordinator at 91¿첥. “The technology is advancing so fast, and we want to ensure our students have access to the best possible training tools.”

CCC already has mannequins that can be programmed for different patient scenarios to provide hands-on learning, but those mannequins do not look or feel as real as these. “Students often say they have a difficult time talking to those ‘patients’ when performing a care scenario,” said Waris. The addition of these new models significantly enhances the visual and tactile realism of simulation-based training, helping students prepare for real-world patient care more effectively.

Interactive Technology for Enhanced Learning

Unlike older models, the electronic components of these mannequins operate externally, providing an advanced virtual monitoring system. Through Bluetooth capabilities, instructors can place a speaker near the mannequin to simulate real-time patient interactions, making the training even more dynamic. Students can hear specialized sounds through a simulated stethoscope, such as lung sounds indicative of COPD, helping them to develop critical assessment skills.

Additionally, the infant mannequin is designed to closely resemble a four-month-old baby, with a naturally floppy head and realistic weight distribution, giving students a true-to-life pediatric experience.

Custom-Made for 91¿첥

Each mannequin was hand-designed to meet 91¿첥’s specific needs. The nursing department could select skin tones and even add simulated wounds if needed. These enhancements ensure students receive a more diverse and comprehensive learning experience.

The instructors also plan to incorporate wearable devices to simulate low-volume care scenarios, including chest tube management, tracheostomy care, and IV insertion. As part of this initiative, standardized patients—real individuals trained to act as patients—will wear these devices to further enhance simulation-based learning.

Looking to the Future

Although the mannequins have not yet been integrated into coursework, 91¿첥 plans to begin using them in the fall once customized simulation scenarios are developed.

“We are very fortunate here that we have these resources,” Waris said. “I’ve visited other simulation labs where they have some wonderful equipment that’s just sitting in a closet. Everything we’ve purchased we use well. Our goal is to give students the best possible experience with simulation technology.”

CCC’s commitment to staying at the forefront of nursing education ensures that students graduate with the skills and confidence they need to provide exceptional patient care. By continuously evolving and integrating the latest advancements in simulation, the college remains dedicated to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

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Meet Nikki Hudson: Shaping the Future of EMS Education /meet-nikki-hudson-shaping-the-future-of-ems-education/ Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/meet-nikki-hudson-shaping-the-future-of-ems-education/ The energy level on campus jumped a notch with the arrival of Nikki Hudson, the new EMS Program Coordinator. Nikki officially joined the team on October 1 and brings over a decade of experience in emergency medical services and education. Her vision and passion are already setting the stage for an exciting future for the...

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Meet Nikki Hudson: Shaping the Future of EMS Education

Nikki Hudson

The energy level on campus jumped a notch with the arrival of Nikki Hudson, the new EMS Program Coordinator. Nikki officially joined the team on October 1 and brings over a decade of experience in emergency medical services and education. Her vision and passion are already setting the stage for an exciting future for the program.

A Journey Rooted in EMS

After being laid off from a doctor’s office job, Nikki wanted to stay in healthcare, so she looked for a career that would fit her passion for people and her dynamic personality. Paramedic school was the perfect fit, and she fell in love with the profession. In 2010, she started working as a part-time EMT. Since then, she has earned an associate degree in EMS, worked as a paramedic, and advanced into mid-level management and administration.

She transitioned into EMS education in 2015, first as an instructor and later as a director in 2017. Along the way, she served as a training officer for Burke County. She also worked part-time at Western Piedmont Community College, overseeing its paramedic program.

Her wealth of experience and past leadership roles prepared her for this new challenge. Nikki is deeply committed to her work and views the community college as an ideal place to nurture the next generation of EMS professionals. “This program has an incredible history of being the one to attend in this area,” Nikki explains, “but we need to attract more students because the demand is so great industry wide. Our goal is to meet the community’s needs and ensure patients receive the care they deserve.”

Vision for EMS Education

Under Nikki’s leadership, the EMS program is poised to maintain and enhance its legacy of producing highly qualified paramedics.

A key initiative to help achieve that goal is an accelerated program that allows students to earn their paramedic credentials within a calendar year. This rigorous program offers a pathway for students with no prior experience or training to become entry-level, field-competent paramedics. “The year-long program takes students from zero credentials to being hirable,” Nikki says. “Then, they can continue their education while earning a living wage. When everything aligns, the students are ready to work, and the agencies are excited to have them.”

Meeting Industry Challenges Head-On

The EMS field is facing significant staffing shortages, and Nikki understands the importance of making the profession appealing and accessible. “These are hard classes, so we need to make them feel fun,” she says. “The learning process should be enjoyable, even while being challenging.”

Thanks to endowments created by the former Kings Mountain and Shelby Rescue Squads, the program ensures students train with tools identical to what they’ll use in the field. 91¿첥 even has its own ambulance.

“EMS is healthcare and public safety combined,” Nikki says. “We must be a jack-of-all-trades, which means thinking outside the box in education. It’s not just about teaching IV insertion—it’s also about teaching them how to drive and handle all the job responsibilities.”

A Bright Future Ahead

With Nikki Hudson at the helm, the EMS program is set to continue its tradition of excellence while evolving to meet the demands of the industry. Her leadership, vision, and dedication to education are sure to inspire current and future students. “The thing about working in emergency services is you get to help someone, and even if it’s only a little bit, it’s life-changing,” she says—a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates her passion for EMS and the impact she hopes to make on students.

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Exploring the Musical World at 91¿첥: Opportunities for All /exploring-the-musical-world-at-ccc-opportunities-for-all/ Tue, 19 Mar 2024 14:15:37 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/exploring-the-musical-world-at-ccc-opportunities-for-all/ Music has a universal appeal that transcends age, background, and career aspirations. At 91¿첥, students are encouraged to explore their musical talents. “Whether you are looking for opportunities to express yourself through music, you want to keep music in your life, or you want to pursue a career in music, 91¿첥’s music program...

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Exploring the Musical World at 91¿첥: Opportunities for All

Music has a universal appeal that transcends age, background, and career aspirations. At 91¿첥, students are encouraged to explore their musical talents. “Whether you are looking for opportunities to express yourself through music, you want to keep music in your life, or you want to pursue a career in music, 91¿첥’s music program offers something for you,” says Heather Gehring, music instructor.

For students considering a career in music, 91¿첥’s Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) in Music offers a curriculum designed to provide a solid foundation for those who want to transfer to a university’s music program. “The music classes we offer are classes that are often required to be taken in the first two years at a university before the student can enroll in upper-level music courses,” says Gehring.

For those who simply enjoy music, 91¿첥 offers a class that incorporates performance as part of an ensemble. “Participation in 91¿첥’s music ensemble is open to anyone with a passion for performing music, regardless of academic background or skill level,” says Gehring. “Whether you’re a 91¿첥 student, a high school student, or a community member, you’re welcome to join the ensemble and share in the joy of making music together.”

While a basic understanding of music is helpful, it isn’t necessary. Several members of the current ensemble are not music majors; they simply love music. “Only three students in the ensemble are enrolled in the AFA; the rest are in programs like Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts, Associate in Science, Audio and Video Production Technology, and Associate in General Education,” Gehring says. For students who need a little extra help, Gehring makes a recording of each person’s part so they can hear how their part is supposed to sound and to help them practice.

The Ensemble group.
The members of the Ensemble pose for a group photo.

She adds, “It doesn’t matter if you sing or what instrument you play, we will find a spot for you if you want to be here!” Current members agree with Gehring’s philosophy, saying they enjoy the camaraderie of the group. Most say the ensemble allows them to do something they love, while also boosting their confidence.

Beyond performance opportunities, 91¿첥’s music program offers a diverse array of academic courses to enrich students’ understanding of music theory, history, and technology. Exciting new additions to the curriculum include courses such as the History of Country Music and Electronic Music, providing students with unique insights into different genres and technological advancements shaping the music industry.

As the program continues to evolve, 91¿첥 remains committed to providing students with enriching experiences both inside and outside the classroom. The upcoming ensemble concert, “April Showers,” features a selection of songs with a water connection. It promises to be a showcase of talent and creativity. Additionally, the concert will include the premiere of a student-composed piece for cello and bass guitar by William Robison.

CCC’s music program offers a dynamic and inclusive environment where students can explore their passion for music, regardless of their background or career aspirations.

Want to attend the concert?
What: “April Showers” concert featuring songs by artists Bill Withers, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Irving Berlin, Amy Winehouse, The Secret Sisters, and more
When: Thursday, April 25, 6:00 p.m.
Where: Keeter Auditorium on the campus of 91¿첥
Cost: FREE

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Office Administration Program, Stepping Stone to Success /office-administration-program-stepping-stone-to-success/ Thu, 29 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/office-administration-program-stepping-stone-to-success/ Frances Kniceley is the Department Chair for the Office Administration program at 91¿첥. She has worked at the College since 2005, but before she became an employee, Frances was a student. She says deciding to enroll at 91¿첥 was the turning point in her work life, setting her on a path to a...

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Office Administration Program, Stepping Stone to Success

Frances Kniceley is the Department Chair for the Office Administration program at 91¿첥. She has worked at the College since 2005, but before she became an employee, Frances was a student. She says deciding to enroll at 91¿첥 was the turning point in her work life, setting her on a path to a career she loves. Below is her story.

My story begins back in the 1980s when I was working in a lighting plant soldering electrical outlets, among other things. I decided that I wanted to do a different type of work. I wanted a professional position in an office setting, so I enrolled at 91¿첥 and chose the office administration program.

Once I began taking classes, I was fully engaged with the coursework and the instructors while I was still working full-time at the electrical plant. One day, one of my instructors told me about an available office job at a local company. I hadn’t completed the program yet, but my instructor suggested I apply for the job. I was hired the same day I went for an interview.

Immediately, I became aware of the difference in the atmosphere and the people who worked there. These people were professionals and acted their part. This was the type of work environment I wanted, so I worked hard.

The opportunity to advance in my new position happened quickly. I was hired part-time, but within a month, I was asked if I wanted a full-time position. I accepted it and worked in that position for six months. Then, I was asked if I was interested in further on-the-job training for a different position.

That opportunity took me in a slightly different direction than office administration, and eventually, it led me back to 91¿첥 and the opportunity to teach others the skills that helped open doors for me. I went back to school because I wanted to work in an office. I had no idea that choice would give me the opportunity to move into a totally different career that I hadn’t even considered but now absolutely love.

Today, I have a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. I have been at 91¿첥 for almost 19 years and truly love teaching. The best part is being able to help my students the way my instructor helped me when local companies call looking for good office employees.

Sometimes, I tell this story to my students to help them understand that starting out in an office administration position does not limit them. The skills learned in the office administration program are a great foundation for many career paths. Office administration jobs are often entry-level positions but can provide a path to higher-level jobs. For those willing to work hard, an office administration position is a stepping stone and sometimes it can even lead to a totally different career, like it did for me.

Find out more about the Office Administration program at 91¿첥 and discover the possibilities for your future.

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Clayful Creations: Students Mold Learning into Fun /clayful-creations-students-mold-learning-into-fun/ Thu, 15 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/clayful-creations-students-mold-learning-into-fun/ Do you have some inner creativity just waiting to be unleashed? Are you looking for a new hobby or creative outlet? Consider an art class at 91¿첥. These classes are available for full-time students, part-time students and community members. Some classes require previous knowledge, but several entry-level courses exist. “Anyone can enroll in...

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Clayful Creations: Students Mold Learning into Fun

Do you have some inner creativity just waiting to be unleashed? Are you looking for a new hobby or creative outlet?

Consider an art class at 91¿첥. These classes are available for full-time students, part-time students and community members. Some classes require previous knowledge, but several entry-level courses exist. “Anyone can enroll in an entry-level course,” said Maria Padgett, instructor. “Zero experience is needed.”

One entry-level course is Ceramics I. In this class, students learn the basics of working with clay. “We start at the beginning, assuming you have no experience with clay,” said Padgett. “I think everyone has a really good time in this class.”

Walking into the class, you might find students who want to be artists or art teachers, but you will also see students who just want to take a fun class. You could also find retirees developing a new hobby.

Some students audit the class, meaning they do not get a grade, so they can just have fun. Some participants enjoy the class so much they take it more than once!

In Ceramics I, students learn how to use a pottery wheel, roll slabs, and join clay together. They also get to use armature, a framework of heavy, stiff wire that can be bent and twisted into a shape. Once the students have a shape they like, they add clay to create their masterpiece!

Within the first few weeks of class, students make their own functional bowls, mugs and plates, as well as decorative, sculptural items. “Sometimes, we’ll have a classroom with someone who’s brand new and someone who’s a little more seasoned working side by side,” said Padgett. “There’s this sense of community that develops. It’s a lot of fun.”

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Animal Science: It’s not just for farmers /animal-science-its-not-just-for-farmers/ Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:22:25 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/animal-science-its-not-just-for-farmers/ Agriculture has been an important part of North Carolina’s economy throughout the state’s history. The agriculture industry, including food and forestry, contributes around $76 billion to the state’s economy, according to the State Library of North Carolina’s website. “Because agriculture is an important part of our state’s economy, we need to encourage the next generation...

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Animal Science: It’s not just for farmers

Agriculture has been an important part of North Carolina’s economy throughout the state’s history. The agriculture industry, including food and forestry, contributes around $76 billion to the state’s economy, according to the State Library of North Carolina’s website.

“Because agriculture is an important part of our state’s economy, we need to encourage the next generation to explore careers in agriculture,” said Courtney Happ, animal science instructor. “Statistics show that the average age of farmers in Cleveland County is 58.6 years. That doesn’t sound very old, but if we don’t train young farmers now, when those farmers are ready to retire in 10 years or so, they won’t have anyone to hand the reins to.”

Happ adds, however, that this program isn’t just for those interested in becoming farmers.

The animal science program at 91¿첥 is also a good opportunity for students who are interested in working with animals and animal agriculture.

Possible careers include working in the areas of agriculture and food science, animal health, agricultural sales, and other areas.

Happ has created a program that offers students the opportunity to experience various areas of work in the industry, first in the classroom and then on field trips to local farms and businesses.

In the classroom, students use interactive equipment for hands-on learning, including activities such as performing ultrasounds on cattle, delivering baby animals, and learning about breeding techniques.

The field trips expose students to farms and businesses that raise beef and dairy cattle, goats, sheep, chickens and more. The students observe and learn from farm owners and operators. They also have the chance to perform tasks such as giving injections, deworming animals, practicing animal handling techniques, and working with animal handling equipment such as cattle chutes.

Happ has drawn on her experience as a student at NC State to create this program, ensuring a high-quality educational experience. Depending on a student’s goals, they can complete a certificate in one or two semesters or pursue an associate degree.

For students interested in transferring, 91¿첥’s animal science program can provide a valuable edge when applying to university-level programs. “These programs are very competitive at the university level,” said Happ. “Having these classes and the experience gained at 91¿첥 on their application will help our students stand out.”

Interested?

In addition to the AAS in Applied Animal Science Technology, 91¿첥 offers the Applied Animal Science Technology certificate, which can be completed in two semesters, and the Introduction to Animal Science certificate, which can be completed in one semester.

The Applied Animal Science Technology Certificate is also offered to high school students through the Career and College Promise program. This program allows qualifying high school students to take college courses tuition-free.

For those interested in transferring, the College has transfer pathway agreements with the following universities:

  • NC State – animal science programs 
  • NC A&T – agriculture education programs 
  • University of Mount Olive – Agricultural and biological sciences programs 
  • Appalachian State University – sustainable agriculture and agriculture education programs 

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Cyber Security: Training the Protectors /cyber-security-training-the-protectors/ Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:43:58 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/cyber-security-training-the-protectors/ Did you know that 91¿첥 offers an associate degree in cyber security? It doesn’t take a genius to figure out why. With technology evolving quickly and hackers getting smarter, businesses, healthcare centers, educational institutions and others need people who know how to keep the bad guys out of their data. The US Bureau...

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Cyber Security: Training the Protectors

Did you know that 91¿첥 offers an associate degree in cyber security? It doesn’t take a genius to figure out why. With technology evolving quickly and hackers getting smarter, businesses, healthcare centers, educational institutions and others need people who know how to keep the bad guys out of their data. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 32% job growth rate in cyber security jobs over the next 10 years.

Part of the training for students in 91¿첥’s cyber security degree program is to compete in the National Cyber League. Students participate in individual games and team games. In the competitions, students test their skills against others who are pursuing cyber security as a career. They work to solve challenges such as identifying hackers from forensic data, auditing vulnerable websites and recovering from ransomware attacks.

For the first time, three 91¿첥 students competed in the National Cyber League during the 2023 fall semester. Two of them became eligible to apply for scholarships because they competed and the team scored above a certain level. “There is an expectation in the industry that students who are pursuing cyber as a career compete in various cyber competitions,” said Susan Randall, instructor and department chair of computer information technology.

To prepare for the competitions, the students met with an adjunct and a fulltime instructor to study and prepare for this event. The instructors answered questions and showed them how to use various types of software. In addition, students worked in the cyber gym, where they practiced and prepared for competitions. The College plans to continue this process for future competitions.

“The feedback from the students who participated was positive, and students who did not participate this time plan to do so in the spring,” said Randall.

The National Cyber League is a virtual training ground that allows students to test themselves against cybersecurity challenges that they are likely to see during their professional career.

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Heavy Equipment Operator Grad Shows Off for Employer /heavy-equipment-operator-grad-shows-off-for-employer/ Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/heavy-equipment-operator-grad-shows-off-for-employer/ In September, 91¿첥 received an email from a recent graduate of the Heavy Equipment Operator Academy. John Doctor wanted to tell his former instructors about his experience while interviewing with a construction company and how the HEO program gave him the skills and confidence to impress his soon-to-be employers. Here's what he wrote:

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Heavy Equipment Operator Grad Shows Off for Employer

In September, 91¿첥 received an email from a recent graduate of the Heavy Equipment Operator Academy. John Doctor wanted to tell his former instructors about his experience while interviewing with a construction company and how the HEO program gave him the skills and confidence to impress his soon-to-be employers. Here’s what he wrote:

Today, I had a job interview with Wayne Brothers Construction Company. They wanted to test me out on the equipment that I was trained on in the HEO Academy at 91¿첥. Going into it I was a little apprehensive. They seemed very serious and direct with what they were looking for. Though some of the equipment was a different brand from those we trained on, it seemed that everything came back to me in full circle. Every task they asked me to do, I completed exceptionally. Every obstacle they wanted me to cross, I completed exceptionally.

John Doctor is the sixth man from the left, leaning on the tire with his arms crossed. He graduated from the Summer 2023 HEO Academy.

The employer was surprised by how multifaceted I was on the equipment and very interested in how I became so familiar with the equipment. I was asked several times about my experience and all I could say was HEO Academy. By the end of the day, they literally asked me how much I wanted to get paid and what I was looking for. I felt like I did a great job representing the HEO program and the program did a great job training me. As I shook the hands of the foreman and his assistant all I kept saying in my head is, “I showed out today.” My confidence was high, and my nerves were low. I just moved methodically and precisely. I believe it showed.

Once I left the interview, I immediately called my instructor, Mr. Thomas Williams and thanked him for a job well done. I never touched a piece of equipment in my life. Now I am on a construction site with seasoned trained operators, and I feel like I impressed them. All they said was “you ain’t green,” that meant a lot to me. In the South, that’s major talk for good job.

Just wanted to thank the instructors and the college for giving me this new skill. Now, I have something I can add to my skillset and provide a living for my family. Thank You, 91¿첥 Heavy Equipment Operator Academy.

To learn more about the Heavy Equipment Operator Academy visit /program-finder/heavy-equipment-operator/

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Celebrating Apprentices /celebrating-apprentices/ Fri, 17 Nov 2023 18:24:14 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/celebrating-apprentices/ On Thursday, November 16, 91¿첥 held its annual Apprenticeship Cleveland signing event. The evening commemorated National Apprenticeship Week by recognizing two graduates of the Apprenticeship Cleveland program, 25 new apprentices and 10 new employer partners. Graduate Doug Womack completed the Milwright apprenticeship with Greenheck. He earned a certificate of completion from the North...

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Celebrating Apprentices

Makenzie Stone

On Thursday, November 16, 91¿첥 held its annual Apprenticeship Cleveland signing event. The evening commemorated National Apprenticeship Week by recognizing two graduates of the Apprenticeship Cleveland program, 25 new apprentices and 10 new employer partners.

Graduate Doug Womack completed the Milwright apprenticeship with Greenheck. He earned a certificate of completion from the North Carolina Community College System, as well as a diploma in Industrial Systems Technology and multiple certificates from 91¿첥.

Womack is a 22-year Army veteran who says that “having the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals on the job has helped me translate what I learned in the classroom to real-world applications in my industry.”

The second graduate, Shane Rogers, completed the Heat Treatment Maintenance Technician apprenticeship with Eaton Corporation. He earned a certificate of completion from the North Carolina Community College System and a journey worker credential from the Department of Labor. He also earned an Associate of Applied Science in General Occupational Technology, a diploma in Automation Engineering, a diploma in Industrial Systems Technology and multiple certificates from 91¿첥.

Earlier this year, Rogers was featured in an article by EdNC about apprenticeships. In the article, he talks about the fear of going back to school and how, by overcoming that fear, he is advancing his career and showing his four children that anything is possible with hard work and commitment.

The second part of the night’s program featured the official signing of 25 new apprentices, formalizing the commitment between the apprentices and their employers. The apprenticeships are in healthcare, electrical, maintenance, welding, HVAC/refrigeration, machining and millwright.

Apprenticeship Cleveland was formed in 2017 to meet the needs of local businesses and industries in Cleveland County. Apprenticeships help develop highly skilled jobs with a minimum of 2,000 on-the-job training hours and at least 144 related instructional hours. Upon successful completion, the apprentice qualifies for a nationally recognized certification as a “journey worker” in a skilled trade and an academic credential from 91¿첥. Employers get skilled workers who have demonstrated, through their participation in the apprenticeship program, discipline, dedication, and a strong work ethic.  

New Employer Partners for 2023

  • Bayada Home Health
  • Camp Electric
  • Clearwater Paper
  • Eaton Corporation
  • IMA Contractors
  • Maco
  • Miller & Condrey Refrigeration and HVAC
  • Pioneer Motor Bearing
  • Settle Heating & Air
  • Peak Resources

Follow Apprenticeship Cleveland on and .

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