Apprenticeship Cleveland celebrates graduates, welcomes new apprentices

Staff Reports | The Shelby Independent

Shown in the photo from left, Vice President Dr. Bruce Mack, graduates Ben Ledbetter, Melissa Cummings, Corey Greene, Brian Bailey, and Joshua Hamrick, and Director of Apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning Sharon Nivens. Graduates Carson Fox, Drake Freeman, Jon Michael Hamrick, John Nordmark, and Dylan Swofford were unable to attend the ceremony. Courtesy photo

Cleveland Community College’s Apprenticeship Cleveland held its annual graduation and signing ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 18. The event celebrated both achievement and new beginnings as graduates crossed the stage and incoming apprentices took their first official step into high-skill career pathways.

This year, the ceremony honored 10 apprentices who have completed their programs, earning certificates, diplomas, or degrees from CCC, as well as their Journey worker certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor.

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Additionally, 29 new apprentices were recognized as they signed letters of intent with their respective employers. The new apprenticeship agreements span a wide range of high-demand areas, including radiography, nursing, tool & die, maintenance, early childhood education, millwright, automation technician, electrician, and electrical and instrumentation.

“Becoming an apprentice is an important decision. It requires time and commitment,” said Dr. Bruce Mack, vice president of academic affairs, during the ceremony. “That’s why we’ve chosen to hold this ceremony and celebrate the decision our students have made. Tonight’s signing ceremony formalizes the commitment between an apprentice and their employer.”

The evening also recognized two new employer partners, Carolina Care Health and Rehabilitation, and Smile’z Childcare Center. Their participation expands the network of companies dedicated to developing highly skilled talent. “Without our employer partners, Apprenticeship Cleveland would not be possible,” said Mack. “Because of them, our students can gain valuable skills to meet workforce needs.”

Formed in 2017, Apprenticeship Cleveland continues to play a vital role in strengthening Cleveland County’s workforce. Apprentices receive a powerful combination of on-the-job experience with a minimum of 2,000 on-the-job training hours, and at least 144 related instructional hours through CCC.

The program’s impact continues to grow, helping local industries thrive and opening doors for students to build rewarding careers.

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