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Alumni Spotlights
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“CFCC trained me for real life” — David Eakins
Even before graduating from CFCC’s Computer Integrated Machining (CIM) program, David Eakins secured a job working for Interroll Group, a leading global provider of machinery handling solutions. After graduating from Cape Fear, Eakins landed a job with GE Aviation in Castle Hayne, NC as a CNC (computer numerically controlled) operator. In this position, Eakins … -
A Life Worth Living, Nyenetu Morlu’s Second Chance
Nyenetu Morlu (left), andVincent Burgess (right)Nyenetu Morlu doesn’t take second chances for granted. After serving 14 years in prison, Morlu was released on December 12, 2024, with a clear focus on moving forward and a determination to use his story to help others change theirs. “Since I’ve been out, I’ve forgotten … -
Alumni Spotlight: Anna Astarita
Meet Anna Astarita, a Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) alum who transitioned from a career in cosmetology to becoming a pre-construction specialist with Coleman Fine Homes. Anna’s story is one of adaptability, resilience, and a passion for design. Originally from New York, Anna moved to Wilmington, NC, with her family. After graduating high school … -
Alumni Spotlight: Corey Pollock
Originally from Dunn, North Carolina, Corey Pollock graduated from Cape Fear Community College’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology program this past weekend. He is already making big moves in his new career, securing a full-time position at Jade Tank Lines, a locally owned and operated trucking company in Wilmington. We caught up with Corey … -
Alumni Spotlight: Holly Conwell, CPhT
Originally from Roanoke Rapids, NC, Holly Conwell moved to Wilmington to pursue her education and career goals. She graduated from CFCC’s Pharmacy Technology program this past May and has already secured a position at Novant Health Pharmacy. What made you decide to enroll at Cape Fear Community College? I chose Cape Fear because I … -
Alumni Spotlight: Jordan John – From CFCC to Salesforce Success
Jordan John, a 2019 graduate of Cape Fear Community College (CFCC), has built an impressive career with tech giants like Oracle and Salesforce. After earning an Associate of Arts at CFCC, Jordan transferred to UNC Chapel Hill, where he graduated with a double major in Economics and Management and Society. Today, he serves as an … -
Alumni Spotlight: Marquita Martin
Originally from Wilmington, NC, Marquita Martin has always had a strong connection to her community. Her journey into nursing was fueled by a desire to challenge racial barriers and make a significant impact in the lives of those around her. Now, as she prepares to graduate from Cape Fear Community College, Marquita reflects on … -
Alumni Spotlight: Nathan Bageant
Although Nathan Bageant began his career in construction as a general contractor, he soon sought a different path to better balance work and family life. He explored health science options and, through a friend, discovered the Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Cape Fear Community College. With his background in residential building and a passion … -
Alumni Spotlight: Phili Vizzini
Phil Vizzini, CFCC alumnus and award-winning photographer, was named Cape Fear Living’s Life on Water category winner in 2024 and Photographer of the Year in 2022. His stunning aerial shots capture Wilmington’s coastal landscapes and beyond. From Oceanography to the Coast Guard After graduating from UNCW with a degree in physical geography and a … -
Alumni Spotlight: Tiffany Fudge
Originally from Anaheim, California, Tiffany Fudge recently graduated from Cape Fear Community College’s Associate Degree in Nursing program. Before pursuing her nursing dreams, Tiffany served as a combat photographer in the military. Her remarkable journey of determination and passion now leads her to embark on a new chapter as an adult acute care nurse in … -
Army Corps veteran finds next career move through CFCC
Brent Springer is a retired veteran who served with the Army Corps of Engineers. Among other tasks during his military career, Springer learned how to operate heavy equipment for building roads and bridges. Shortly after retiring from the military, Springer decided to pursue a career in construction as a civilian. He considered attending a … -
Atlantic Marine and CFCC partner to train the next generation of marine technicians
Atlantic Marine has been a leader in the marine industry for more than four decades, with 47 years in business and over 30 years as a Yamaha dealer. Their partnership with Cape Fear Community College’s Yamaha Outboard Systems program shows how education and industry can work hand-in-hand to create opportunities for the next generation … -
Barbering grad opens luxury barber shop in downtown Wilmington, NC
After serving in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division in Fort Bragg, NC, Steve Grissom worked as an arborist, climbing trees to inspect them. When his knees started complaining, Grissom began to look for a new line of work. He still had strong hand-eye coordination and decided to pursue his interest in barbering. Researching … -
Cape Fear Rising
Pictured left to right: Nate Lorenz, Landon McClellan, and Marc Siegel Meet Cape Fear Rising, a band with strong ties to Cape Fear Community College. Two of its founding members, Nate Lorenz and Landon McClellan, got their start at CFCC, while their guitarist, Marc Siegel, is a music instructor at the … -
Carissa Hunter Finds Her Place in Hospitality Management
Hospitality is fast-paced, unpredictable, and full of moving parts, and for Carissa Hunter, that’s exactly the appeal. After graduating from Cape Fear Community College’s Hospitality Management program in Spring 2023, Carissa is now the Operations Manager at Tru by Hilton in Wilmington. “I definitely chase chaos,” she laughed. “That’s what drew me into hospitality in … -
Catching up with CFCC Alumni Jose Garcia
On a recent trip to Wilmington, NC, CFCC Alumni José Garcia stopped in to visit the campus, faculty, and his little sister, Emily. We caught up with José, and he was happy to give us an update and share his success story! During his time at CFCC, José was very active on campus. Through … -
CFCC Adult High School Grad Finds Her Passion in Counseling and Takes Next Steps at CFCC
CFCC adult high school graduate Crystal Harris discovered her passion at CFCC and is on her way to a career as a substance abuse counselor. “I used to struggle with questions like ‘what am I supposed to do now?’ and ‘how am I supposed to support my family?’” said Crystal Harris, CFCC adult high school … -
CFCC AFA-Visual Arts Grad Transfers from the Port City to the Windy City
CFCC Associate in Fine Arts-Visual Arts graduate Jack Estep admits to not being ready for a 4-year university right after high school. The CFCC Merit Scholar decided that Cape Fear Community College was a great juncture between high school and the university level. Not only was the cost more affordable, but classes were also … -
CFCC alum Brian Allen now principal of Burgaw Middle School
Brian Allen, a CFCC alum and New Hanover County native, recently assumed the role of principal at Burgaw Middle School. Prior to his new position, he opened Surf City Elementary School where he served as the principal for the past five years. Allen’s early exposure to the world of education and mentoring began through … -
CFCC Alum Ryan Mattox Comes Full Circle, Partners with CFCC for HVAC Apprenticeships
When Ryan Mattox graduated from Cape Fear Community College’s Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology program in 2007, he never imagined that less than two decades later, he’d lead one of the region’s most respected mechanical contracting companies and partner with CFCC to train the next generation of technicians. An Unexpected Path to HVAC … -
CFCC Alumna and Author S. C. Porter Returns to Campus
When English professor Cheryl Saba opened an email from a local author last summer, it caught her attention immediately. The message came from S. C. Porter, a CFCC alumna, author, poet, and small-business owner, who wanted to connect with students. “I love projects like this,” said Saba. “As a teacher, I’m always asking, what can … -
CFCC alumna creates platform for artists to speak their peace
Mahlaynee Cooper graduated from CFCC in December of 2017 with an Associate in Fine Arts degree in theatre. As a non-traditional student, her adult life left little room for extra school activities. “It’s different when you return to school after many years,” Mahlaynee said. “With my limited time, my priority was to focus and … -
CFCC alumna finds passion in restaurant management
Massachusetts native Sarah Brennan traded the cold winters of her home state for a fresh start on the southeast coast. PATH TO RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT Although Sarah began her college education as a psychology major at a Massachusetts state college, she knew by her third semester that psychology was not her passion. That’s when she … -
CFCC Alumna Jessie Robertson Combines Art and Purpose
From Wilmington Early College High School to CFCC to UNCW, alumna Jessie Robertson has built a career that combines art and purpose. Jessie graduated from Cape Fear Community College in 2019 with not one, but three associate degrees: Art, Science, and Fine Arts in Visual Arts. Building a Foundation at CFCC At CFCC, Jessie … -
CFCC alumna journeys from paralegal pursuit to law partnership
Jessica Humphries, a CFCC alumna, began her academic journey at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she majored in Political Science. After completing her degree, she decided to take a break before pursuing law school. Drawn to the Wilmington area, Jessica relocated and enrolled in Cape Fear Community College’s Paralegal Technology … -
CFCC Alumna Named Eugene Ashley High School Teacher of the Year
Eugene Ashley High School Principal, Patrick McCarty, and Fatima Sail. Wilmington, NC – Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) alumna, Fatima Sail, has been recognized as the Eugene Ashley High School Teacher of the Year for 2023-2024. Fatima has taught French at Ashley for the past four years and is licensed to … -
CFCC Alumnae Build Successful Careers in Construction
Julliane de Souza This Women in Construction Week, we’re celebrating three incredible Cape Fear Community College alumnae who have taken different paths within the construction industry. Maria Torres From CFCC to Monteith Construction Maria Torres and sisters Alana dos Santos and Julliane De Souza graduated from CFCC’s … -
CFCC alumni excels as VP of national dining solution company
With over 20 years in the hospitality industry, Matt Smythe, a CFCC Culinary Arts graduate, now holds the position of Vice President of Operations at LifeWorks Restaurant Group. A national provider of premier customized dining solutions, Lifeworks designs outstanding dining establishments for clients aiming for top-tier workplace results. In his role, Matt collaborates with … -
CFCC alumni nominated for Primetime Emmy Award
Wilmington, NC – Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) proudly announces that one of our alumni, Susan Russell, has been nominated for the prestigious Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Period Costumes for a Limited Series or Anthology Movie. Susan worked as a Costume Supervisor on the locally filmed George and Tammy set. Susan has worked … -
CFCC alumni signed on with Alimerka Oviedo Baloncesto, professional basketball team in Oviedo, Spain
Introducing Demetric Horton, a distinguished CFCC alumni! Demetric made his mark as a vital player on the CFCC Men’s Basketball team during the 2018-2019 season, leaving an indelible impression. His remarkable skills and unwavering commitment were undeniable throughout his time with the team. After completing his bachelor’s degree at NC A&T, Demetric’s journey elevated … -
CFCC alumni strikes gold with UNC-Charlotte 49ers
Ismael Urbina enrolled at Cape Fear Community College with three goals in mind. Reduce the cost of college. Raise his grade point average to help him achieve his third goal: Enter a nursing program. He succeeded at all three. With stops at UNC-Chapel Hill and Johns Hopkins University, Urbina’s now on his way to … -
CFCC alumni to compete in world deaf football championships
Cape Fear Community College is proud to announce that one of our alumni and former student-athletes, Tristan Torbett has been selected to compete with the United States Deaf Men’s National Team (USDMNT) at the 4th World Deaf Football Championships. The tournament will run from September 20, 2023, to October 8, 2023, in Kuala Lumpur, … -
CFCC alumni, Travis Shallow, announced as opening act for country legend, Clint Black
Credits: Erika Arlee Cape Fear Community College Alumni Travis Shallow will open for award-winning country artist Clint Black on Sunday, June 25, at the Wilson Center. Shallow, an Americana and Folk singer/songwriter, will captivate a packed crowd with a solo acoustic set. Travis Shallow graduated from Cape Fear Community College with … -
CFCC automotive systems instructor keeps students on pace with industry
After working in a salvage yard and tire shop for a few years, Thomas Butler decided he was ready to advance his career. That’s when he discovered Automotive Systems Technology at CFCC and enrolled in the associate degree program. In the early 1990s, Butler graduated from CFCC’s first two-year Automotive Systems Technology program. He immediately … -
CFCC boat building graduate builds dream homes
While growing up in the furniture manufacturing capital of the world nurtured his love for craftsmanship, Hickory-native Kyle Henry knew he wanted to take his skills in a different direction. He desired to build boats. Henry researched different boat-building schools and programs but found that most were costly and out of state. Except for … -
CFCC Chemical Technology Grad Erin Watson Found Her Path and It Started in Our Labs
“I got my foot in the door through science,” says Erin Watson, CFCC Chemical Technology alum and now a leader in pharmaceutical quality assurance. Her journey started with a spark of curiosity, took a few unexpected turns, and led her into a career where her work helps ensure the safety of biologic drugs worldwide. … -
CFCC Construction Management Leads to Careers at Monteith
When it comes to success in the construction industry, there’s no one-size-fits-all path. CFCC alumni Luke McKeithan and Alex Pano Martinez are proof of that. Both Cape Fear Community College Construction Management graduates took different routes after earning their associate degrees. Today, they’re both building their careers at Monteith Construction. As one of the region’s … -
CFCC culinary arts alum is beefing up business
From undecided to culinary arts alum to successful small business owner, Sam Steger shares his journey from Cape Fear to owning a thriving Wilmington restaurant. “There’s a lot of pressure on people to get a four-year degree,” said Sam Steger, local entrepreneur and CFCC alum. “I thought I wasn’t going to be successful without it.” … -
CFCC EMT alumni answered fate’s persistent call
The last career choice Jeramy Martin thought he’d pursue was Emergency Medical Technician. Little did he know, fate had different plans in store for him. JOURNEY TO EMERGENCY MEDICINE Following years of dedicated service as a combat medic in the U.S. Army, Jeramy found himself unable to shake the call of emergency medicine. Despite … -
CFCC Firefighter Academy Graduate Finds Her Calling as a First Responder
Wilmington, NC – On June 3, 2021, twelve students graduated from CFCC’s Firefighter Academy. Among the graduates was Amanda Cobb, a public safety officer on Bald Head Island. Cobb grew up in Alaska where she attended the University of Alaska Fairbanks and graduated with a degree in art. “I really enjoyed art. It was fun … -
CFCC graduate and learning lab tutor recognized by UNCW
CFCC graduate, Caitlin Parrott, has been recognized by UNCW Cameron School of Business as the fall 2021 Outstanding Graduate in Information Technology. Parrott was nominated by her advisor at UNCW for the distinction. Parrott is honored to have received this recognition and grateful she found CFCC to help her achieve this accomplishment. Enrolling at CFCC … -
CFCC graduate receives full scholarship to Amherst College
CFCC graduate Philip White Self-taught business analyst Philip White decided to return to school to pursue a formal education. He found a passion for politics and economics and knew that a college degree would improve his career options. The Whiteville native decided to begin his education journey at CFCC. WHY CFCC? … -
CFCC graduate revamps career to help those in need
Following a corporate downsize, Jean Rogers found herself unemployed. While taking a moment to regroup, she discovered the happy ending for her story. Rogers enrolled at CFCC in the Human Services Technology – Addiction and Recovery Services program. Now, she is pursuing her passion for helping individuals suffering from addiction and mental health issues. … -
CFCC Graduate Selected as NCSU Goodnight Scholar
CFCC class of 2021 graduate Mario Ramalho has been selected as a Goodnight Transfer Scholar at NC State University. The Goodnight Scholarship is valued at $21,000 per year for up to three years. Ramalho is among 25 Goodnight Transfer Scholars selected from across North Carolina. After serving nine years in the U.S. Navy, Ramalho enrolled … -
CFCC Graduate Spotlight: Elizabeth Hare
Elizabeth Hare was pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies at UNCW when she realized a need for interpreters. During her sophomore year, she met a deaf person dependent on their parents to help interpret in the hearing world. “There’s no advocacy or support for the deaf community and interpreting, and I’m a bit … -
CFCC graduate Zoey Brass launches dog grooming business in Carolina Beach
Zoey Brass has always loved animals but never imagined that her passion would quickly become a thriving business. After graduating from Cape Fear Community College’s Dog Grooming program in December 2024, she wasted no time using her skills. Just a month later, in January of this year, she opened Island Dog Grooming in Carolina … -
CFCC Graphic Design Grads Support the Wilson Center’s Creative Team
While national Broadway tours, concerts, and community performances take the stage at Cape Fear Community College’s Wilson Center, a creative team behind the scenes shapes how audiences experience every show. What makes the team especially unique is three of its marketing specialists are all graduates of CFCC’s Graphic Design program. Josiah Nguyen, Class of … -
CFCC Machining Grad Now Runs His Own Shop
Thirteen years after walking into his first machining class at Cape Fear Community College, Tripp Jones is running his own shop and hiring graduates from the same program that launched his career. When Tripp first enrolled at CFCC, he wasn’t thinking about manufacturing. He started in the college transfer program and planned to enter … -
CFCC Marine Tech grad hits the high seas
Natalia Renfrew wakes up every morning in love with her job. Despite occasionally rough seas and seasickness, Natalia is thrilled to work in the marine sciences, commenting, “It’s everything I ever wanted.” After graduating from CFCC’s Marine Technology program, she was hired by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) in Gloucester Point, VA. … -
CFCC Marine Technology Grad Locks in Job with Weeks Marine
Flashback to her senior year of high school, Kaitlyn Bellas was torn between pursuing a four-year degree in marine biology from a university and a two-year degree in marine technology from Cape Fear Community College. The summer after her senior year, Bellas, working at a dive shop, was struck by the reputation CFCC’s Marine …
