Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt Kicks Off Future-Ready Community College Tour at BCC
网曝吃瓜 (BCC) was honored to host Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt as the launch site for her Future-Ready Community College Tour, an initiative focused on strengthening workforce training across North Carolina鈥檚 58 community colleges.
During her visit, Lt. Gov. Hunt toured BCC鈥檚 Integrated Machine Technology Lab, Welding Lab, and Nursing Simulation Lab, meeting with students and faculty to discuss the impact of workforce development programs. She was accompanied by BCC Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Kevin Lee and Vice President Continuing Education Economic & Workforce Development Greg Bland.
鈥淣orth Carolina鈥檚 community colleges offer pathways to opportunity and help train our strong workforce,鈥� said Lt. Gov. Hunt. 鈥淲e need to make meaningful investments so more people can access quality, affordable education and we can build a Future-Ready North Carolina.鈥�
BCC President Dr. Gene Smith emphasized the college鈥檚 commitment to workforce development:
鈥淲orkforce training is at the heart of our mission and vision, and we are committed to providing educational opportunities and industry-recognized credentials in high-demand fields such as construction, project management, blueprint reading, HVAC, integrated machine technology, small engine repair, welding technology, and electrical technician certification,鈥� said Dr. Smith. 鈥淭hanks to our incredible partners, we ensure that financial barriers鈥攕uch as registration fees, books, supplies, and exam costs鈥攁re no longer obstacles to these opportunities.鈥�
The Lieutenant Governor鈥檚 visit also spotlighted Propel NC, a proposed new funding model designed to align resources with workforce demand. North Carolina Community College System President Dr. Jeff Cox underscored its significance:
鈥淧ropel NC represents a transformative investment in workforce training, ensuring our colleges have the resources needed to prepare students for high-demand careers and meet the needs of businesses across the state.鈥�
Lieutenant Governor Hunt鈥檚 Future-Ready NC initiative advocates for increased investment in education, workforce training, and Career and College-Ready Graduate Programs. Her tour of North Carolina鈥檚 community colleges will highlight the essential role these institutions play in building a highly skilled workforce for the future.
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February 2025
