CFCC LAUNCHES MANUFACTURING PROGRAMS TO MEET LOCAL DEMAND

WILMINGTON, NC — To meet local workforce needs, Cape Fear Community College is launching three programs this June: Manufacturing Production Technician, Machining Applications, and Distribution Warehousing. These short-term training programs will allow students to train for careers in the manufacturing industry.

“Yogasleep, Wilmington Grill, TriTech Forensics, Hitachi, MojoTone, and other local manufacturing employers have expressed a great need to grow their manufacturing professionals,” said John Downing, vice president of economic and workforce development at CFCC. “Cape Fear Community College is excited to offer these programs and enable students to learn and excel in lucrative, fast-growing careers. We are committed to helping our community mitigate the workforce shortage.”

MEETING THE DEMAND

According to the North Carolina Department of Commerce, an estimated 7,467 people employed in manufacturing positions will be needed by 2028 in the Wilmington area alone— and nearly 500,000 statewide.

“There is a tremendous need for experienced and entry-level staff to fill the ongoing increase in manufacturing jobs in Eastern NC,” said Cheryl Morlote, senior people and culture manager at Yogasleep . “Not only do companies need staff, but the continued influx of new manufacturing companies moving to or starting up across NC also provides huge job opportunities.”

“The job outlook is very promising–there are over 100 manufacturing companies in our three surrounding counties (Pender, New Hanover, and Brunswick), all with an immediate need to add skilled laborers to their company,” said Michael Mcwhorter, CEO of Mojotone .

EXTENSIVE OPPORTUNITY

Many opportunities are available for individuals who possess a skill set in basic manufacturing principles.

“These training programs will provide foundational skills for the local workforce that can be applied across many industries,” said Jim Flock, HSM Machine Works general manager. “This will open doors to rewarding careers for students while providing a needed pipeline of talented, well-trained individuals for our companies.”

“I’ve been in this industry for over five years, I started in the production department, and now, a few promotions later, I’m an important member of the Quality Department,” said Sam DiGregorio, lead inspector at HSM Machine Works. “My time in this industry has taught me that a lot of the myths like “they’re not high paying,” or “they’re filthy jobs” are untrue. They do pay well and offer great benefits. Now is the perfect time to take advantage of these opportunities.”

Upon completing the programs, students can interview local manufacturing, machining, and production companies.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Registration for the Manufacturing Production Technician program is open now. Sign up or request more information today. Registration for Machining Applications and Distribution Warehousing will open in the coming weeks.

CFCC Economic and Workforce Development accepts walk-ins and appointments Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.