Staff reports

THOMASVILLE — Davidson County Community College is hosting its first ever Apprenticeship  Summit on Friday from 8 a.m. to noon on the Davidson Campus.

This free event is open to area employers and aims to expose attendees to federal and local cost-saving resources that could help start or booster apprenticeship programs in their businesses. Employers from all industries are encouraged to attend to learn more about the benefits of apprenticeship programs.

“Most people think that apprenticeship programs are too time consuming and too costly or are for manufacturing jobs only,” says Carolyn Davis, program director for corporate training and workforce development at DCCC. “The truth is that the benefits of an apprenticeship program far outweigh the cost and commitment. Likewise, the benefits of apprenticeship programs can be found across industries from manufacturing to construction, healthcare, retail, accounting and IT, any career where acquired skills occur on the job in addition to strong academic learning.”

The summit will bring together key representatives of agencies able to help businesses fund and potentially staff apprenticeships. DCCC will introduce how the college is best positioned to serve as a potential pipeline for talent and apprentices. Many of the college’s programs align with local industries who could benefit from apprenticeship programs to help with hiring needs and address the local skills gap.

The North Carolina Department of Commerce, Davidson County Commissioner, Davidson County School Superintendent, Local Workforce board, Davidson County Economic Development and North Carolina Community College System Office will all participate in the event. Two panel discussions are planned as well as networking opportunities. Attendees can also expect to hear from current apprentices and employers with apprenticeship programs.

To see the complete agenda and register for the summit visit DavidsonCCC.edu/appsummit. Contact Carolyn Davis at 336-249-8186 ext. 6331 or Carolyn_Davis@DavidsonCCC.edu with any questions.