Today, Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt launched her Future-Ready Community College Tour at Brunswick Community College and toured workforce development programs including the Integrated Machine Technology Lab, Welding Lab and Nursing Simulation Lab. Lieutenant Governor Hunt was joined by Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Kevin Lee, and BCC Vice President Greg Bland as she toured the school and spoke with students. The Lieutenant Governor will visit the ‘Great 58’ North Carolina community colleges and champion Propel NC funding to support workforce-focused initiatives.
“North Carolina’s community colleges offer pathways to opportunity and help train our strong workforce.” said Lieutenant Governor Hunt. “We need to make meaningful investments so more people can access quality, affordable education and we can build a Future-Ready North Carolina. I can’t wait to visit each one of these strong schools and speak with their fantastic educators and students and see their programs firsthand.”
“Brunswick Community College is proud to welcome and host Lt. Gov. Hunt as she kicks off the Future Ready North Carolina initiative, making BCC the first stop on her tour of all NC Community Colleges. Workforce 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,” said Brunswick Community College President Gene Smith. “Our dedicated team works every day to break down barriers that prevent students from pursuing these valuable skills. Thanks to our incredible partners, we ensure that financial barriers—such as registration fees, books, supplies, and exam costs—are no longer obstacles to these opportunities. We are honored to support the Future Ready North Carolina initiative and to continue empowering our students and community with the skills needed for success.”
“North Carolina’s community colleges are the backbone of our workforce, providing life-changing education and training that fuel our state’s economic success,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System. “Lieutenant Governor Hunt’s commitment to visiting all 58 of our colleges underscores the vital role they play in shaping a Future-Ready North Carolina. Propel 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.”
During the event, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted Propel NC, the proposed new funding model for North Carolina’s community colleges that incentivizes funding programs to meet workforce demand. Propel NC prioritizes programs focused on workforce development and preparing workers for the careers of the future.
Lieutenant Governor Hunt’s policy platform, Future-Ready North Carolina, champions investments in child care and early childhood education and workforce development, in part through North Carolina’s community colleges. As a member of both the State Board of Education and Community College Board, the Lieutenant Governor will also emphasize Career and College-Ready Graduate Programs.
The North Carolina Community College System includes 58 institutions dedicated to educating the leaders of tomorrow by providing affordable college courses and programs to anyone across the state. From animals and the environment to trades and mechanics, these schools offer entry-level programs across dozens of industries and provide continuing education to those interested in strengthening their skills in specific areas.
Read more about Lieutenant Governor Hunt’s Future-Ready Plan here.
Stay updated on the Future-Ready Community College Tour here.
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