Nash Community College has been awarded $18,000 in scholarship funds from the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation through its Bridge to Career Program. The program, available at all 58 community colleges across North Carolina, helps remove financial barriers for students seeking state-regulated or industry-recognized credentials that lead to sustainable wage careers.
The SECU Bridge to Career Program provides funding for $500 scholarships to be awarded to up to 30 eligible students at NCC. Scholarship recipients must be enrolled in workforce training courses that lead to state-recognized or industry-supported credentials, such as Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Truck Driver Training, HVAC, Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy, Nurse Aide I & II, EKG Technician, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Paramedic, Firefighter Academy and more.
“Workforce training is one of the most direct ways we can impact our community by preparing individuals for careers in high-demand fields,” said Carla Dunston, dean of continuing education at NCC. “Thanks to SECU Foundation’s generous support, our students can pursue the education and skills they need without financial obstacles standing in their way.”
The program focuses on assisting unemployed and underemployed adults, military veterans, members of the National Guard, and underserved populations in workforce sectors with marketable job skills that lead to long-term career opportunities.
NCC Vice President of Continuing Education & Workforce/Economic Development Wendy Marlowe added, “This partnership with SECU Foundation ensures that students who may not have otherwise had the chance can earn valuable credentials. It not only changes lives but also strengthens our local workforce and economy.”
Since its launch in 2018, the SECU Bridge to Career Program has supported thousands of North Carolina community college students by funding credentials that align with local workforce needs.
NCC President Dr. Lew K. Hunnicutt said, “We are deeply grateful to SECU Foundation for recognizing community colleges’ role in developing talent and meeting workforce demand. These scholarships support our mission to meet students where they are and prepare them for successful and rewarding careers that improve the quality of life across Nash County and beyond.”
For more information about the SECU Bridge to Career Program at Nash Community College, or to apply for the scholarship, visit nashcc.edu or call NCC Continuing Education at 252-451-8216.
