The Department of Workforce Development provides programs and training that supports local business and industry. The Department links the College to the associated efforts of local, regional, and state agencies for economic and workforce development.

The Customized Training Program supports the economic development efforts of the State by providing education and training opportunities for eligible businesses and industries.  The program was developed in recognition of the fact that one of the most important factors for a business or industry considering locating, expanding, or remaining in North Carolina is the ability of the State to ensure the presence of a well-trained workforce.  The program is designed to react quickly to the needs of businesses and to respect the confidential nature of proprietary processes and information within those businesses.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the Customized Training Program is to provide customized training assistance in support of full-time production and direct customer service positions created in the State of North Carolina, thereby enhancing the growth potential of companies located in the state while simultaneously preparing North Carolina’s workforce with the skills essential to successful employment in emerging industries.

ELIGIBILITY

Those businesses and industries eligible for support through the Customized Training Program include Manufacturing, Technology Intensive (i.e., Information Technology, Life Sciences), Regional or National Warehousing and Distribution Centers, Customer Support
Centers, Air Courier Services, National Headquarters with operations outside North Carolina, and Civil Service employees providing technical support to US military installations located in North Carolina.

In order to receive assistance, eligible businesses and industries must demonstrate two or more of the following criteria:

• The business is making an appreciable capital  investment; 
• The business is deploying new technology; 
• The business is creating jobs, expanding an existing workforce, or enhancing the productivity and  profitability of the operations with the State; and 
• The skills of the workers will be enhanced by the assistance.

Resources may support training assessment, instructional design, instructional costs, and training delivery for personnel involved in the direct production of goods and services.  Production and technology support positions are also eligible for training support.

Full-time probationary employees of qualified Customized Training companies are eligible for training delivered by the Community College.

The use of Customized Training funds requires that trainees are paid by the company for all time during training hours.

The Quality Initiatives Program provides training and technical assistance in Productivity improvement, total quality practices and international quality standards for businesses, healthcare providers, and public and private sector agencies. Offerings include Six Sigma, Lean, basic quality skills, statistical process control, and all phases of ISO 9001:2000 implementation. The program also partners with the American Society for Quality to provide quality course offerings. Additionally, a resource center for quality information
and a lending library make specialized books and videos available.

The Workforce Development Department also offers specialized training, certification and certification preparatory courses including:

• APICS Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM) Certification Preparation: CPIM certification prepares those in the fields of Production and Inventory Management, Operations, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Materials Management and Purchasing to increase knowledge and skills, improve organizational efficiency, reduce cost and enhance credibility among their peers.
• Building Operator Certification: Designed for Maintenance Technicians and/or Building Operators of large facilities, this course focuses upon achieving reduction in energy usage and cost as well as enhancing sustainability. 
• Escort Vehicle Operator Certification and/or Recertification: These courses satisfy the requirements set by the North Carolina Department of Transportation to certify Oversize - Overweight load escort vehicle drivers. Course components consist of defensive driving, escort driver requirements, skills training and examinations.
• Fundamentals for Advanced Manufacturing Training: This training course is designed to narrow the skills gap between what skills manufacturers indicate job applicants have and what skills manufacturers actually need them to have. The curriculum includes safety, problem solving, math, measurement, blueprint reading, quality concepts, lean principles, lean simulation, and CNC interfaces. A strong emphasis is also placed on communication skills, interpersonal skills, and teamwork.

Workforce Development’s additional training opportunities include but are not limited to the following:

• Blueprint Reading
• Braising, Soldering, and Welding 
• Forklift Operation and Safety 
• CPR/ First Aid/Blood Borne Pathogen Certification and/or Recertification 
• Customer Service 
• Leadership Development 
• OSHA 10 Hr and 30 Hr General Industry Standards 
• OSHA 10 Hr and 30 Hr Construction Standards