In an effort to address the growing need for affordable housing in North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein has taken significant steps to bolster the state’s construction workforce. Recently, he visited Pitt Community College, alongside President Maria Pharr and Greenville’s Director of Neighborhood and Business Services, Tiana Berryman. The visit highlighted the college’s construction and industrial technology program, which plays a crucial role in training students for the construction industry.
Governor Stein’s visit comes on the heels of signing an executive order designed to expand housing opportunities and affordability across the state. This initiative underscores the importance of a skilled construction workforce to meet the housing needs of North Carolinians.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized, “To lower families’ largest monthly expense – their mortgage or rent – we need to significantly increase the number of homes we build each year.” He highlighted the role of educational programs like those at Pitt Community College in connecting individuals to well-paying jobs in construction.
President Maria Pharr of PCC noted, “Our students don’t just learn to build. They build actual homes for families in our community. Through our Construction and Industrial Technology programs, we are training the electricians, HVAC technicians, and construction professionals Eastern North Carolina needs, while producing affordable housing that strengthens our neighborhoods.”
North Carolina is facing a projected shortage of over 750,000 housing units by 2029, impacting low- and moderate-income families the most. The state ranked ninth in the nation for rental price increases from 2024 to 2025, highlighting the urgent need for affordable housing solutions.
The Executive Order No. 36 directs state agencies to collaborate on increasing housing supply, affordability, and access. It also encourages the use of technology for data-driven housing solutions.
Governor Stein’s recent budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 aim to further bolster North Carolina’s housing sector. The budget proposes investments in affordable housing programs, preservation of existing rental units, and emergency home repairs. It also seeks to fund higher-density zoning policies to diversify the housing supply.
Moreover, Governor Stein is a strong advocate for apprenticeship models, which provide pathways to high-demand careers. His budget supports youth apprenticeship programs through NC Career Launch, aiming to expand opportunities in construction and other high-demand sectors.
North Carolina’s commitment to workforce development has been recognized, with Site Selection Magazine ranking it as the 2026 Top State for Workforce Development. This accolade reflects the state’s dedication to enhancing its apprenticeship and workforce programs.
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