In today’s competitive labor market, having the right tools to grow and retain a skilled workforce is more important than ever. For companies in Rowan and Cabarrus counties, one powerful tool is the apprenticeship offerings supported through Rowan-Cabarrus Community College’s Corporate and Continuing Education Business Services team.
While many apprenticeships in the region are operated by partner organizations—such as Mechanical Trades Carolinas and the Local Union 421—RCCC plays a vital role in instruction and program delivery. The college provides the classroom training and instructors for these employer-sponsored programs, including those in welding, plumbing, electrician, and machining.
Industrial Maintenance Apprenticeship: RCCC’s Flagship Program
One of RCCC’s standout offerings is the Industrial Maintenance Apprenticeship Consortium, a registered four-year program designed to help local employers grow their own multi-craft industrial maintenance technicians. With the next cohort launching in August 2025, the program is available to any employer looking to build in-house technical talent. Current consortium members include Martin Marietta, Saertex, McKenzie Creative Brands, and Freshouse.
Apprentices follow a structured schedule that blends supervised, on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. They work Monday through Thursday at their sponsoring company and attend RCCC classes on Fridays. The program features a progressive wage scale, with apprentices typically receiving a 10% raise each year as their skills develop.
The impact is already being felt. Two cohorts have graduated since the program began in 2017, and six second-year apprentices are currently enrolled across the consortium companies. It’s a practical, cost-effective solution to a growing workforce need—and 100% of tuition and fees are covered by the employer.
Why Apprenticeships Work
The benefits of registered apprenticeships go beyond workforce readiness. Nationally, companies that invest in apprenticeship programs see a 44.3% return on investment and enjoy a 92% employee retention rate after completion. In a 2021 survey, 99% of employers noted additional indirect benefits such as improved company culture and stronger talent pipelines.
For local businesses, this makes apprenticeships not only a strategic talent solution—but also a smart investment in long-term growth and employee engagement.
Partnerships that Power Progress
In addition to the Industrial Maintenance program, RCCC supports other apprenticeship pathways by partnering with organizations such as:
- Mechanical Trades Carolinas, which runs programs in plumbing, pipefitting, and HVAC
- The N.C. Association of Electrical Contractors, which sponsors a four-year electrician apprenticeship program
- Local employers like Daimler, Ketchie, Legrand, and Rowan Partners in Learning who operate registered programs with varying levels RCCC curriculum education
These partnerships allow RCCC to meet industry needs across a wide spectrum of trades, providing flexibility in how employers engage with the apprenticeship model.
As Rowan and Cabarrus counties continue to grow, these apprenticeship programs will play a vital role in preparing the workforce for tomorrow. Whether your company is seeking to build its talent pipeline or is interested in joining the next Industrial Maintenance cohort, RCCC is ready to support you with a training model that works.
Looking Ahead
To learn more or explore how to get involved, visit www.rccc.edu/corporate or contact Kerry Motley, RCCC’s Business Services Account Manager and Apprenticeship Director, at kerry.motley@rccc.edu.
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