Columbus County leaders have worked to create new opportunities that prepare students for in-demand careers and connect employers with the skilled workers they need. At Southeastern Community College, an apprenticeship program built in partnership with local school systems and employers is helping create those connections.
“Southeastern Community College’s Apprenticeship Program was established in response to the economic and workforce challenges created by the significant decline of tobacco farming in Columbus County,” said Denise Young, Director of Apprenticeship Programs at Southeastern Community College. “As traditional jobs disappeared, our community needed new pathways that would connect students with education, training, and career opportunities in growing industries right here at home.”
Southeastern Community College partnered with Columbus County Schools, Whiteville City Schools, and local industry to create pathways that introduce students to careers while providing education, technical training, and experience in the workplace.
“What makes our Apprenticeship Program unique is the partnership among Southeastern Community College, Columbus County Schools, Whiteville City Schools, and local industry,” said Young. “Together, we have created a direct pathway from the classroom to the workplace.”
Through the program, students can participate in job shadowing, employer tours, hands-on career training, internships, pre-apprenticeships, and registered apprenticeships. Students also have opportunities to earn high school and college credit and industry-recognized credentials while building relationships with local employers.
Golden LEAF awarded $199,100 to support in-demand industry training by providing funding for a director of apprenticeship, student transportation, internship stipends, professional development, course and program costs, and supplies.
“By addressing those practical needs, Golden LEAF helped us create stronger connections among education, hands-on training, apprenticeships, and high-demand career opportunities,” said Young.
To date, through the Golden LEAF-funded project:
- 69 students earned at least one industry or third-party certification, license, or credential.
- 18 students completed at least one curriculum program.
- 14 students participated in work-based learning.
Students have earned credentials supporting careers in automotive technology, construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and other high-demand fields. Certifications range from OSHA safety credentials and Ford ACE Certification to healthcare credentials such as Basic Life Support CPR/AED and Certified Nurse Assistant.
The combination of credentials and work-based learning gives students an opportunity to demonstrate their skills while gaining experience alongside professionals in the field.
“Our greatest success stories are the students who enter the program unsure of what they want to do and leave with credentials, hands-on experience, greater confidence, and a clear career direction,” said Young. “Through internships and apprenticeships, they also build relationships with local employers that can open doors to future opportunities.”
For Southeastern Community College, building a successful apprenticeship program has required more than developing coursework. It has meant working closely with employers to understand their workforce needs and address concerns about bringing younger students into the workplace.
“My advice to anyone developing a similar program is to start by building strong relationships and involving employers from the beginning,” said Young. “Listen to what they need, communicate consistently, clearly explain how the program can benefit their workforce, and be willing to adapt.”
Through those partnerships, Southeastern Community College is helping students see a future for themselves in Columbus County while helping local employers develop the skilled workforce they need to grow.