AHOSKIE, NC –Eight students completed the Steps4Growth Program, which began in early June and concluded July 31 at Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC). The college sponsored the 90-hour summer curriculum, along with an 86-hour lab where students completed a project related to renewable energy resources.

During the ceremony, students demonstrated a solar power project completed during the program. The goal of the demonstration was to show the creation of power without using electricity.

Program graduates included Ksean Deloatch, Shakayla Deloatch, Nyasia Dunn, Jarrell Grant, Jeremiah Harris, Jalen Mitchell, Myeesha Perry and Joshua Smallwood.
R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams congratulated completers and said, “The Steps4Growth Clean Energy pre-apprenticeship program is designed to equip our students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this dynamic field, ensuring they are ready to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of tomorrow.”

Williams encouraged the students to embrace the opportunity. “The skills you acquire here will not only open doors to exciting careers but will also empower you to make a meaningful impact on the world. You are the innovators, the builders, and the leaders of tomorrow,” she added.

The summer program was provided through the Steps4Growth Clean Energy Grant in partnership with NC A & T State University. William Nelson, R-CCC Industrial Systems & Mechatronics Program Coordinator was the instructor.

Nelson noted that new jobs are being created in solar, wind and water such as Dominion Energy’s offshore wind farm project. “We are entering a new job era with a lot of jobs available, and these jobs pay well,” said Nelson.
 
The Clean Energy Pre-Apprenticeship program was created to prepare students for a career in the manufacturing sector, with a particular emphasis on renewable energy and related transferable skills. Participants are exposed to typical problems and challenges encountered in a modern manufacturing environment and gain first-hand experience in addressing them.

R-CCC Dean of Business Technologies and Public Services Dwayne Ponton applauded the students. “I know sometimes it is hard to be committed to a full summer program but know that what you have done is not in vain. We have seen your hard work, and we are here to assist you in the future no matter where you go,” said Ponton.

Pre-apprenticeship participants received 176 hours of related instruction to encompass Industrial Safety - ISC 112, Working Smart, Lean Six Sigma – Yellow Belt, General Industry OSHA-10, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and Renewable Energy Resources. These courses introduced students to the principles of industrial safety, OSHA and environmental regulations; self-management and work ethics; process capability and improvement; job-related hazards; first aid and CPR; and renewable energy resources including solar and wind energy, hydro power and biodiesel power sources.

R-CCC Executive Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Tanya Oliver encouraged graduates to keep learning and moving forward with their skills.  “Students, your dedication to the Steps4Growth program required dedication, perseverance and commitment to excellence. The skills and knowledge you gained are valuable assets that will serve you well in your professional and personal lives.”

For more information about Steps4Growth or any of R-CCC’s programs, call 252-862-1200 or visit roanokechowan.edu. 
 

 

 

 

Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s Mission
Roanoke-Chowan Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System and located in Hertford County, is a public, two-year institution of higher education offering associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, college and career readiness, and customized business and industry training in a variety of delivery modes promoting public service, transfer, and workforce development for a diverse student body, leading them to contribute to the vitality of an increasingly global community. www.roanokechowan.edu #DiscoverRCCC “Where community and careers connect”

Media Contact: Melanie Temple, Director of Marketing & Recruitment/PIO, metemple7181@roanokechowan.edu, 252-862-1243