NC Governor Announces Success of Youth Apprenticeship Programs

This initiative is part of the North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE), which, through its NC Career Launch program, has supported over 1,067 students in youth apprenticeship programs across 48 counties. “These apprenticeships give North Carolina’s high school students the chance to learn hands-on and earn a paycheck as they explore career pathways in high-demand industries,” said Governor Stein.

Careers Electric Summer Academies

NCBCE’s Careers Electric initiative aims to create early entry points into the state’s growing electrical and energy workforce. The program received a significant boost from the BlackRock Foundation, which selected it for its Future Builders Inaugural Cohort. This selection was part of a nationwide competition where Careers Electric was one of 15 initiatives chosen from over 1,000 applicants.

This summer, 220 students participated in the program across 12 communities, gaining valuable skills through community college coursework and direct engagement with employers. Institutions like Blue Ridge, Central Carolina, and Wake Tech were among those involved.

Southeastern Education and Economic Development (SEED)

Now in its third year, the SEED program, created by NCBCE and funded by the Smithfield Foundation, provided opportunities in advanced manufacturing and agriculture. Sixty-four students engaged in hands-on learning and work-based experiences at several community colleges, including James Sprunt and Lenoir.

BioWork Pre-Apprenticeship for Students on the Autism Spectrum

Partnering with Johnston and Durham Technical Community Colleges, NCBCE launched a BioWork pre-apprenticeship targeting students on the autism spectrum. Thirteen students completed a 140-hour certificate course, designed to provide foundational skills for biotechnology and pharmaceutical careers.

NC Career Launch Summer Youth Apprenticeship Programs

In addition to the above initiatives, NC Career Launch funded summer programs in seven counties, where over 200 students pursued pathways in sectors like construction and information technology, working closely with local employers.

Health Care Apprenticeship Pathways

NCBCE is also addressing nursing shortages by developing pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship pathways in health care. Supported by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation, these efforts have seen over 400 individuals completing relevant programs in the past year.

STEP-NC: First Health Care Apprenticeship in State Government

Governor Stein and NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai announced the STEP-NC initiative, marking the first health care apprenticeship within state government. This program aims to train high school graduates in behavioral health and maintenance technician roles, with facilities like Broughton Hospital participating.

Supporting North Carolina Workers

Governor Stein continues to advocate for apprenticeship models that foster high-demand career opportunities. Earlier this year, he directed funds towards NC Career Launch, with the goal of doubling apprenticeships across the state. North Carolina was also recognized as the Top State for Workforce Development by Site Selection Magazine.

For more details about the North Carolina Business Committee for Education, click here.