CFCC Expands Apprenticeship Program
Wilmington, NC (October 15, 2026) – Cape Fear Community College is expanding its apprenticeship program with new career pathways, creating more opportunities for students to gain industry-relevant skills while helping local employers build a skilled workforce.
CFCC is adding five pre-apprenticeship pathways: Automotive Technician, Carpenter, Early Childhood Educator, Electrical Assistant, and EV Service and Repair.
Three registered apprenticeship pathways are also being added: Automotive Collision, Repair, and Refinishing Technology; Carpentry/Construction Management; and Survey Technician/Geomatics. The expansion follows the addition of CFCC’s Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) registered apprenticeship pathway earlier this year.
With the expansion, CFCC will offer 16 pre-apprenticeship and 19 registered apprenticeship pathways. The college currently partners with 135 employers, adding 20 employer partners since May, and continues to pursue new partnerships to meet workforce needs throughout the region.
“Apprenticeships are one of the most powerful ways we can connect education with opportunity,” said Joel Sackett, Director of Apprenticeships at CFCC. “Apprentices earn while they learn, gain valuable hands-on experience, and develop the skills employers need, while our industry partners have an opportunity to build a skilled workforce right here in our community.”
Registered apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with paid, structured on-the-job training and range from one to four years. Pre-apprenticeships focus on academic coursework and prepare students to transition into registered apprenticeships and skilled careers.
“Expanding these pathways is about responding directly to the needs of our students, our employers, and our region,” said Jim Morton, CFCC President. “By working alongside industry, we are creating opportunities for our students to build successful careers while giving employers access to the talent they need to grow.”
For more information about apprenticeship opportunities at Cape Fear Community College, visit https://cfcc.edu/continuing-education/apprenticeship-programs/
