As North Carolina employers grapple with a tight labor market and rapid technological change, community colleges are stepping up to meet the demand, and more students are taking notice. Enrollment at the state’s two-year colleges jumped 8.3% this spring compared with the previous year, outpacing the national average.

John Loyack, vice president of economic development for the North Carolina Community College System, attributes the growth to the system’s flexible pathways, from associate degrees and short-term certificates to custom training for local employers. The state’s community colleges are playing a key role in preparing workers for fast-growing industries like advanced manufacturing, aviation, life sciences and cybersecurity — all sectors where hands-on training and technical credentials are essential.

On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Loyack sits down with Ledger editor Tony Mecia to talk about the role community colleges play in the local economy, the impact of student debt debates on educational choices, "hot jobs" and specific industries and skills that are in high demand, and much more!

This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals. 

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This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.

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