Unlocking ACCESS: Work-Based Learning through County Partnerships

Our partnerships with Columbus County and Whiteville City K-12 public schools as well as area employers create apprenticeship opportunities for our students that give them invaluable work experience and bring classroom lessons to life.

We’ve spearheaded Access Apprenticeship, which is a partnership with between Southeastern Community College, Columbus County Schools and Whiteville City Schools and is generously supported by Columbus County Commissioners. This program will build a pipeline of employees for Columbus County that will start with high school students who move into college workforce programs.

Apprenticeships open doors for all students, from high school graduates to military veterans and career changers. SCC, in collaboration with Columbus County Government, Columbus County Schools, and Whiteville City Schools, has seen remarkable success in the apprenticeship program. These powerful partnerships benefit both students and employers in Columbus County.

Internships, another key facet of SCC’s commitment to work-based learning, puts students in meaningful work environments where they’ll practice the skills, they’ll need for their chosen career paths. Through strong connections with local employers, SCC has placed 15 interns with 12 different organizations since Fall 2022. Employers have praised SCC students’ professionalism, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn.

Internships provide real-world exposure and help students develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. By exploring career options and gaining practical experience, students become better prepared for the job market upon graduation.

Our work-based learning programs are shaping a highly educated workforce in Columbus County and its surrounding areas. By forging strong partnerships, SCC is not only meeting the demands of today’s workforce but also securing a prosperous future for our community.

TYLER THOMPSON

Apprenticeship Location: Council Tool in Lake Waccamaw, NC

Credentials: Welding Certificate & Diploma OSHA 10 & 30

Tyler was a masonry student in our Columbus Career & College Academy where he received his OSHA 10 certification in masonry. He then started in the SCC Welding program where he received his OSHA 30. He expects to return as an apprentice in Fall 2023 and complete his welding degree in Spring 2024. Access Apprenticeship is helping Tyler pay the way to further his education, something that may not have been possible for him without the opportunity to earn money while learning the trade.