This award provides funding to Randolph Community College to establish a new Heavy Duty Equipment Training Program and to provide heavy equipment training to students in existing programs such as Agriculture and Construction Trades. With the announcements of Toyota, Wolfspeed, and others, Randolph County expects a 39.1% increase in demand for construction equipment operators over the next ten years. Nearly 120 area employers and industry representatives have expressed support for the project, including a pledge from Ace Avant to encourage its employees to seek instructor positions within the program. Golden LEAF funds will be used for simulators and supporting equipment, building renovations, personnel, professional development, and classroom support equipment and materials.
