Gilbert attended the annual Haas Technical Educators Conference held through the Gene Haas Foundation at Calhoun Community College in Decatur, Alabama. This year’s conference theme was “Rocket-Fueled Careers: CNC and Beyond.”
During the conference, Gilbert gave a presentation about WCC’s summer pre-apprenticeship program through the Southeastern Education and Economic Development (SEED) initiative.
Participants earn college credit and gain paid educational experience through hands-on learning, classroom instruction, and tours of local businesses, getting industry-recognized credentials at no cost to them.
WCC has offered a SEED advanced manufacturing summer academy for three years and an agriculture academy for the past two years.
In her presentation, Gilbert discussed North Carolina’s workforce needs in relation to the manufacturing industry and how providing pre-apprenticeship opportunities can increase the number of students who pursue credentials after graduating from high school.
Gilbert said she enjoyed being able to highlight SEED’s impact on students and the community. “It was an honor to tell our story and showcase what we’re building at WCC,” she said.
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