Work-Based Learning Archives - 91�첥

Change is Part of the Journey

Paula Vess — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 20:54:02 +0000

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Change is Part of the Journey

Spotlights

February 17, 2026

Paula Vess

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Spotlight: Christian Perez-Dorta

Christian Perez-Dorta’s path to a career wasn’t a straight line, but it was built with purpose, persistence, and a lot of growth along the way.

Growing up in Ohio, Christian graduated from high school and jumped straight into college. It didn’t take long for him to realize he wasn’t quite ready. “My discipline wasn’t what it needed to be,” he said. College didn’t stick, but his long-standing interest in the military did. He decided to join the United States Marine Corps, knowing it would give him the structure and discipline he was missing.

After being discharged from the Marines in 2020, Christian moved to Shelby to join his parents, who had moved there five years earlier. Then he began thinking seriously about what he wanted to do next. That’s when 91�첥 entered the picture.

Christian enrolled at 91�첥 in 2022 as an Associate in Arts student. At the time, he thought he might want to teach history. However, it didn’t take him long to decide that teaching probably wasn’t the right fit, so he switched to Business Administration. “It’s a good program,” Christian said. “A business degree gives you options.”

In May 2025, he graduated with an Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration, and along the way, he found more than just a major that worked for him. He found a community.

One of the biggest influences on his 91�첥 experience was Jaime Henderson. She was his advisor during his first year and later transitioned to the Work-Based Learning Coordinator role. Christian participated in the Work-Based Learning program, which allowed him to work in both the Spirit Shop and the Business Office on campus.

“That program was a huge success for me,” he said. “It gave me experience in areas I was thinking about working in after graduation, and it helped me get closer to faculty and staff by working with them.”

Those connections mattered. Christian credits the Business Office and Spirit Shop staff with helping shape his work ethic and professional mindset. He also spoke highly of his instructors, including Mr. Chadwick and Mr. Wallace, as well as Financial Aid staff member Debbie Young and others who supported his journey.

In July 2025, Christian started a position with Revolution Financial Management, a financial services company that provides free financial literacy education to the communities it serves. His role focuses on educating families about how money works. “Everyone deserves the knowledge so they can have a chance at a better life,” he said. The job allows him to work from home and set his own hours, giving him flexibility as he plans his next steps.

Even though his time as a 91�첥 employee has ended, Christian isn’t quite done being a student. He registered for several spring classes, not because he needs them, but because the topics genuinely interest him.

For fellow veterans who may be searching for their next direction, Christian has simple but powerful advice: “The resources are out there. Go look for them. You are not alone. Your community is there to help.”

Christian’s story is a reminder that there is no single blueprint for success. Fortunately, success doesn’t require a perfect start, and we are not limited to just one chance. Instead, success may follow a path full of twists and turns, shaped by opportunities to learn, grow, and change. For some, success isn’t found only at the end of the path, but in the journey itself.

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Greenheck Group Honored for Partnership with 91�첥

Paula Vess — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 18:20:55 +0000

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Greenheck Group Honored for Partnership with 91�첥

Recognition

February 13, 2026

Paula Vess

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CCC congratulates its long-standing partner, Greenheck Group, on receiving the Outstanding Employer Award from the North Carolina Work-Based Learning Association (NCWBLA). The award was presented during the Association’s annual conference held in Asheville on November 6, 2025.

The Outstanding Employer Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to work-based learning and make a lasting impact on students, communities, and the local economy.

Since 2007, Greenheck Group has been a valued partner of 91�첥, creating meaningful educational and economic opportunities for students in Cleveland County. With five facilities located near the College, Greenheck has worked closely with faculty and staff to provide students with real-world learning experiences that bridge the gap between education and employment.

Through programs such as Apprenticeship Cleveland, Greenheck offers students the opportunity to earn while they learn—gaining hands-on skills, industry knowledge, and pathways to rewarding careers close to home. This collaboration benefits both students and local employers while strengthening the region’s economic foundation.

The Outstanding Employer Award was presented to Greenheck Group by Jaime Henderson, director of College and Career Readiness at 91�첥. She nominated Greenheck for the award while she served as the Work-Based Learning coordinator. She was joined for the presentation by Sharon Nivens, director of Apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning, and Dr. Bruce Mack, vice president of Academic Affairs. Accepting the award on behalf of Greenheck were Chuck Benton, Kamryn Spangler, and Alexander Self.

“Greenheck doesn’t just invest in programs; they invest in people,” Henderson said. “They believe that when you invest in people, you strengthen both your workforce and your community. That belief shows in everything they do.”

Greenheck’s leadership team actively supports workforce development initiatives through advisory committee service, hosting interns, participating in customized training, and engaging directly with students through facility tours, classroom visits, and mentorship opportunities.

Greenheck’s partnership with 91�첥 exemplifies how collaboration between industry and education can build a stronger community. Their investment in 91�첥’s students helps shape the workforce of tomorrow and fuels the growth of Cleveland County and beyond.

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Cyber Defender: 91�첥 Student Finds Purpose in Protecting Others

Paula Vess — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:06:06 +0000

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Cyber Defender: 91�첥 Student Finds Purpose in Protecting Others

Spotlights

January 28, 2026

Paula Vess

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CCC student Chad Pinyan started down the path into cybersecurity with a simple goal: to help people.

After spending more than a decade at home caring for his disabled mother and raising his daughter, Chad decided it was time to pursue a new career. Once his daughter went off to college, he was ready. He wanted a career that would enable him to continue making a difference.

That decision led him to 91�첥, where he enrolled in the cybersecurity program, and later added two more related programs to enhance his skills and broaden his career opportunities. He will graduate in May 2026 with three associate degrees. “The instructors at 91�첥 gave me the guidance and confidence I needed to succeed in this field,” Chad said.

As part of his cybersecurity program, Chad completed a Work-Based Learning (WBL) course that provides students with hands-on experience in their chosen field of study. He secured a summer internship with the Carolina Cyber Network (CCN), where he gained valuable real-world experience working alongside a skilled cybersecurity team.

During his internship, Chad deepened his technical knowledge and honed his leadership and teamwork abilities. He even helped organize a cybersecurity workshop on 91�첥’s campus to educate local small businesses about online safety and data protection. Plans are in place to hold six more workshops during the spring 2026 semester.

After one of those workshops, a participant sent a letter praising its value. The attendee stated, “Not only was I educated about cybercrime tactics, but it also provided steps I can implement on my devices to help protect against digital threats.” The attendee went on to praise the help they received from Chad, saying, “Mr. Pinyan is a valuable resource for anyone needing assistance with cybersecurity on their computer or smartphone device.”

Chad’s supervisor, Gabe Lindsey, praised his initiative and professionalism, “Chad consistently looked for ways to help others and demonstrated exceptional growth. His leadership and communication skills stood out.”

That impact didn’t go unnoticed. After completing his internship, Carolina Cyber Network created a new position specifically for Chad. On September 10, 2025, he officially became CCN’s new Cybersafe Community Assistant. A few months into that new position, Chad says things are going great, “working with the community to help protect them.”

Outside of work, Chad continues using his cybersecurity knowledge to serve others. He developed a program at his church to help community members recognize scams and online threats, and he has, of course, helped protect his mother from potential fraud attempts.

When asked why he chose cybersecurity, Chad doesn’t hesitate with his answer: “To help people.”

Reflecting on his journey, he credits Work-Based Learning as a defining experience. “I not only learned more about cybersecurity,” Chad said, “but I also learned how to work on a team, manage disagreements, and be patient. The experience confirmed that I’m on the right path.”

Chad is one example of how hands-on learning, dedicated instructors, and strong industry partnerships at 91�첥 can transform ambition into opportunity.

Interested in cyber security? Check out 91�첥’s Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology – Cyber Security or other programs of study in the Information Technology field.

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Navy Veteran Finds Path to IT Career Through Work-Based Learning

Paula Vess — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:18:06 +0000

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Navy Veteran Finds Path to IT Career Through Work-Based Learning

Spotlights

March 13, 2025

Paula Vess

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After proudly serving for three years in the U.S. Navy, Michael Williams returned to civilian life ready to build a stable career. When he was unexpectedly laid off from his job, he seized the opportunity to pursue a new path and enrolled in 91�첥’s Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology Programming and Web Development.

As part of his studies, Michael joined the Work-Based Learning (WBL) program, which became a critical step in launching his new career. “It’s a great program because it gives you real hands-on work experience, allows you to shadow professionals, and helps you learn what you need to be successful in your future career,” he said.

His first internship through WBL was with 91�첥’s IT department, where he worked at the helpdesk. During this experience, he benefited from a wide range of tasks, including assisting students with password resets and supporting faculty with IT challenges.

Eager to further his education through practical experience, Michael re-enrolled in WBL and secured a second internship with the IT department at Cleveland County Schools (CCS). This partnership proved to be a transformative experience for Michael. Under the guidance of Chief Technology Officer Ginger Jackson and her dedicated team, Michael was immersed in the day-to-day operations of school technology support.

CCS allowed Michael to shadow and work alongside technicians across multiple schools, gaining insight into the complexities of IT support in an educational environment. From troubleshooting and resolving technical issues to installing hardware and software, Michael experienced the full spectrum of IT tasks. Beyond technical skills, he admired the technicians’ ability to foster strong working relationships with staff and faculty. “One thing that stood out to me was the importance of customer service and how the techs had great working relationships with the school staff and faculty,” Michael shared.

Michael also emphasized how CCS treated him like one of their own. “What really meant the most was that they all treated me like part of the team,” he said. This supportive environment allowed him to grow both professionally and personally, giving him confidence in his abilities and a deep appreciation for teamwork.

The WBL program at 91�첥 and partnerships like the one with CCS provided Michael with the real-world experience he needed to succeed. However, financial challenges created hurdles for Michael, especially since this internship was unpaid. Recognizing this, WBL Coordinator Jaime Henderson connected Michael with Camille Eaves, Career Advisor at NCWorks. Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program, Camille secured funding to compensate Michael for his internship hours and assist with his educational expenses.

Michael described his experience with NCWorks as “phenomenal,” praising Camille’s diligence and professionalism. “She expedited my paperwork and ensured I received my first paycheck quickly. I was truly grateful for her support,” he said.

With the combined help of 91�첥, CCS, and NCWorks, Michael completed his internships and achieved a significant milestone. At the conclusion of his internship with CCS, he was hired as a Tech 1 at Burns Middle School. Michael credits much of his success to the support system surrounding him, especially his wife Angela. “She sacrificed as much as I did.”

Michael’s story shows that setbacks can be the foundation for new beginnings. What started as an unexpected career setback led him to a fulfilling new path where he could make a difference, continue growing, and build a future.

As he powers up computers and tackles IT challenges at Burns Middle School, he can feel confident knowing that every experience and every struggle led him to this moment, and he is exactly where he’s meant to be.

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Desire to Provide Motivates Dad to Learn New Career

Paula Vess — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 18:27:34 +0000

News

Desire to Provide Motivates Dad to Learn New Career

Student Spotlight

December 15, 2023

Paula Vess

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Meet Johnathan Walker, who made a life-changing decision to dive into the world of Information Technology at the age of 34. Before this decision, he worked various jobs from restaurant manager to construction worker and even ran his own business.

Then, the pandemic hit and like many others, Johnathan was forced to reevaluate his career choices. He and his wife had decided to foster children and then to adopt. It was time to return to the educational journey he had started more than a decade ago.

Johnathan discovered an interest in information technology despite a rocky start in his first programming class. At first it felt like trying to learn a foreign language. Fortunately, he had an outstanding teacher, Derek Ramsey, who guided him every step of the way. With Mr. Ramsey’s support and instruction, the programming concepts started to make sense, and Johnathan began to relish the challenges.

In addition, the children’s presence in his life became a constant motivator, pushing him to excel in his academic and career pursuits. And it all paid off. He will complete the Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology-Network Technician degree at the end of this semester.

Along this journey, Johnathan enrolled in the Work-Based Learning class, where students earn academic credit for working and applying their classroom knowledge on the job. Through the WBL class, he landed an internship with the IT Department here at 91�첥.

The internship helped Johnathan gain valuable skills and knowledge, and it led to a part-time job as a help desk associate in the department. His WBL experience equipped him with skills like task delegation, troubleshooting, and professional communication. He was also exposed to a collaborative work environment, where he learned to seek help from colleagues when facing unfamiliar problems and to maintain meticulous notes on the issues he encountered.

The connections Johnathan established during his internship were invaluable. The IT Department welcomed him with open arms, and this supportive environment played a crucial role in his development.

Working in IT has been incredibly rewarding for Johnathan. The people he works with, the problem-solving challenges, and the satisfaction of resolving complex issues make it a fulfilling career. His goal is to secure a full-time position at 91�첥 and continue his educational journey.

In addition to the new skills, Johnathan has learned that determination and motivation are essential for pursuing a career through college education. Making the right career choice, even when unsure about your abilities, can lead to a path of fulfillment.

For Johnathan, his education in information technology has opened doors to a fulfilling career that he is passionate about, and he is excited to see where the future takes him.

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Work-Based Learning Archives - 91�첥

Change is Part of the Journey

Change is Part of the Journey

Spotlight: Christian Perez-Dorta

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Video Spotlight: May Ashe

A Second Chance, A New Future

Greenheck Group Honored for Partnership with 91�첥

Greenheck Group Honored for Partnership with 91�첥

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2026 Jean Harry Francis Employee Awards

Honor Rolls – 2026 Summer Term

Cyber Defender: 91�첥 Student Finds Purpose in Protecting Others

Cyber Defender: 91�첥 Student Finds Purpose in Protecting Others

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Video Spotlight: May Ashe

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Navy Veteran Finds Path to IT Career Through Work-Based Learning

Navy Veteran Finds Path to IT Career Through Work-Based Learning

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Video Spotlight: May Ashe

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Desire to Provide Motivates Dad to Learn New Career

Desire to Provide Motivates Dad to Learn New Career

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Video Spotlight: May Ashe

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