Колледж Sandhills откроет в Раэфорде новый учебный центр для подготовки рабочих кадров

Sandhills Community College Opening Workforce Trades Building in Raeford Sandhills Community College will lease a new workforce trades building in Raeford after the Board of Trustees voted on Tuesday, Aug. 4 to approve the location at 2550 Aberdeen Road,… Sandhills Community College will lease a new workforce trades building in Raeford after the Board of Trustees voted on Tuesday, Aug. 4 to approve the location at 2550 Aberdeen Road, according to a press release from the college. Small engine repair and electrical courses begin in September. Local business partners requested assistance filling skilled trade positions in Hoke County. That's what sparked this decision. Classes kick off around Sept. 14, and registration information will be shared with prospective students soon. "We listened to our business partners in the community and are excited to help fill demand in the skilled trades that are needed in the community," president Sandy Stewart said in the press release. "We're excited to set up a shop for small engine repair and electrical work to get things rolling with hands-on training for these high-demand positions." The building sits just west of Raeford. It serves as an extension of the Hoke Center campus at 1110 East Central Avenue, which also houses SandHoke Early College High School. Vice provost Michelle Bauer said the team worked with community leaders, schools, and area businesses to make the expansion happen. "The residents in the area are looking to gain or upskill their talent and land positions in the community where they can stay local and contribute their skills for a meaningful life," Bauer said in the press release. The small engine repair program will teach students to become mechanics who can handle disassembly, inspections, cleaning, and repairs. Students in the electrical program will learn about safety, circuits, and residential electrical services—all at the introductory tier. Both programs offer hands-on training. Students can earn credentials through the electrical course that employers seek when hiring. Welding and HVAC classes will be added later. Stewart said the building is ready for teaching these skills when the time comes. The Board of Trustees approved the lease without opposition. Officials said the move answers community requests for filling local positions and keeping residents close to home for work.