Nash Community College is proud to announce a new partnership with STEM East and the NCEast Alliance to enhance Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and promote career pathways in Eastern North Carolina. This collaboration will align innovative educational programs with the needs of regional employers, strengthening workforce development and ensuring that students are prepared for future career opportunities in STEM fields.
STEM East, a network connecting educators and employers, plays a critical role in promoting STEM engagement from K-12 education through community colleges and universities. By working with public schools, community colleges, and universities in Eastern NC, STEM East develops forward-thinking partnerships that align educational programs with the workforce needs of the region. The goal is to provide real-world STEM learning opportunities that prepare students for careers in high-demand industries, ultimately supporting the growth of businesses and economic development in Eastern North Carolina.
NCC recently joined the NCEast Alliance, becoming an integral part of the STEM East Network. Through this partnership, NCC will collaborate with public schools, community colleges, universities, and regional employers to ensure that local students have access to educational resources that are relevant to the careers of today and tomorrow.
“We are excited to be part of this dynamic partnership with STEM East and the NCEast Alliance,” said Dr. Lew K. Hunnicutt, president of NCC. “By connecting our students with innovative STEM learning opportunities, we are equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in today’s competitive job market. This collaboration is a significant step in building a workforce that is not only skilled but also aligned with the growing demands of our regional economy.”
NCEast Alliance Director of Community College Engagement Wesley Beddard, shared his enthusiasm for the new partnership, “The NCEast Alliance has always focused on growing and developing Eastern North Carolina, and we are thrilled to welcome Nash Community College into our network. The collaboration with NCC further strengthens our ability to align education with industry needs, providing students with the tools to succeed in careers that matter in our region.”
Dr. Hunnicutt further emphasized the importance of the partnership, “This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce development opportunities. It will not only empower our students but also help build a strong, sustainable workforce for Eastern North Carolina.”
Through this partnership, STEM East and the NCEast Alliance aim to enhance the educational experience for students across the region by promoting hands-on STEM learning opportunities that directly connect with career pathways in Eastern NC. This initiative will help ensure that the region remains a leader in workforce development, driving economic growth and innovation for years to come.
