CFCC Launches 3D Modeling and Printing Program at GLOW Academy
Wilmington, NC (August 27, 2026) — Cape Fear Community College has partnered with Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW) to launch an innovative, yearlong program focused on 3D Modeling and Printing, hosted directly on the GLOW campus.
Through this initiative, participating students can earn an industry-recognized 3D Printing Certificate from CFCC’s Mechanical Engineering Technology program. The curriculum spans four courses split across two semesters, taught on-site at GLOW by a CFCC instructor in a newly dedicated lab space.
“Partnering with GLOW Academy allows us to bring high-demand, hands-on engineering experience directly into the classroom,” said Jim Morton, CFCC President. “This program creates a seamless bridge to higher education and builds a direct pipeline for young women to excel in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics careers.”
The program teaches students to design, edit, render, and export model files. Beyond mastering software and materials, students will gain key skills in assembly work, basic drawing principles, and comprehensive design planning from concept to finished product.
“One of the most important things we can do for our students is provide meaningful exposure to experiences, technologies, and career pathways that they might not otherwise encounter. GLOW students aren’t simply learning how to use new technology, they are designing, problem-solving, creating, and beginning to see themselves in fields where women continue to be underrepresented,” said Kate Tayloe, GLOW Principal. “We are incredibly grateful to Cape Fear Community College for investing in our students and bringing this kind of innovative, real-world learning directly to our campus.”
Upon completion, students will hold an industry-standard credential that seamlessly bridges into an Associate Degree path at CFCC.
For more information about CFCC’s Mechanical Engineering Technology program, visit https://cfcc.edu/mechanical-engineering-technology/.
