TASTE OF INDUSTRY
“We are grateful to Duke Energy for their support of Rowan-Cabarrus Community College,” said President Spalding. “Their continued support and significant contributions to the College over the last few years have been vital.”
The event featured a panel of leaders from industry fields, such as machinists, welders, and IT management, who answered questions regarding job placement, salary expectancy, and additional employee benefits. High school teachers, counselors and college instructors joined together to explore the vibrant career options within these different fields and industries.
“Our goal for this event was to engage with core subject high school teachers to show them what careers in technical education really look like,” said Dr. Van Madray, dean of business, engineering technologies & public services. “Many were surprised at the careers available – these are not your grandfather’s jobs. They are high-tech, high-demand, and high paying.”
In addition to the great one-day event, the grant also allowed the College to purchase curriculum kits for each teacher in attendance to be taken back to the classroom. The kit was comprised of calculators, calipers, a networking kit (raspberry pi), a poster, and a flash drive complete with five full lesson plans.
Today, manufacturers across the country are facing a skills gap between the technical skills their employees need and the skills they find in applicants. Rowan-Cabarrus is working diligently with manufacturers to do its part in addressing the gap that prohibits employers from filling these high-tech, high-wage jobs. The Duke Energy grant continues to help the College to further that mission.