The Alamance-Burlington School System is proud to announce an exciting development in the collaborative Alamance County Career Accelerator Program (CAP). The program, which has been opening doors for high school students through on-the-job training and apprenticeships, is undergoing a rebranding to become "Apprentice Alamance."
A New Era of Opportunities
Apprentice Alamance, officially unveiled on October 18, 2024, represents a renewed commitment to transforming the workforce in Alamance County. The program aims to bridge the gap between education and industry by offering innovative apprenticeship programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on training.
"Apprentice Alamance addresses the unique workforce challenges our area faces in ways that benefit both high school students and local employers. It's a win-win outcome for everyone involved," said Eddie Gant, Apprentice Alamance Chairman.
Impressive Impact and Participation
Since its inception, the program has made a significant impact on the community:
51 ABSS students have participated in the program
12 ABSS students are currently active
23 graduates, with 21 from ABSS
15 local businesses have provided opportunities
11 businesses are currently active in the program
These numbers highlight the strong partnership between ABSS and local industry, as well as the program's success in attracting and retaining students from the school system.
Several recent graduates have successfully transitioned from the program into promising careers:
Zeke Peyton (Western Alamance High) - now at ECI/RegO
Nathan Huffines (Southern Alamance High) - secured a position with GKN Automotive
Wyatt Willard and Darrius Ray (Eastern Alamance High) - now with GKN Automotive and Glen Raven, respectively
Victor Melgar (Cummings High School) - joined IntraPac
The program continues to grow, with two new students recently accepted:
Matthew Eddins (Walter M. Williams High School)
Owen Mann (Southern Alamance High School)
Both will be apprenticing with Machine Specialties Inc, gaining valuable industry experience while completing their high school education.
A Collaborative Effort
The success of Apprentice Alamance is made possible through collaboration with various community partners, including the Alamance Chamber, Alamance Community College, and Apprenticeship NC. The program also benefits from the support of the Business Consortium, which includes companies such as AKG, Elevate Textiles, ECI/RegO, Shawmut Infinite, Flynt Amtex, GKN Driveline, Glen Raven, Indulor, IntraPac, Machine Specialties Inc, and Sandvik Coromant
Terri Drummond, Career and Technical Education Director at ABSS, emphasized the program's impact: "The Career Accelerator Program is more than just a program – it's a launchpad for our students' futures. It allows our students to explore potential career paths, develop professional skills, and make informed decisions about their future."
Mary Margaret Harris, Williams High School Career Development Coordinator, added, "Through the years, I have watched the CAP Program evolve and change as the community's needs have changed. One thing hasn't changed. The difference this makes in the lives of the students involved. Their talents are highlighted, they mature, they become productive members of the community and leaders in their companies."
Get Involved
Families interested in learning more about Apprentice Alamance can visit the official website at www.apprenticealamance.com. The admissions process begins each fall with a research and touring phase, and applications are due annually on February 15.
For specific questions or to express interest in the program, contact your high school's Career Development Coordinator. They can provide detailed information about the application process and help determine if Apprentice Alamance is the right fit for your educational and career goals.
With its new name, logo, and updated website, Apprentice Alamance is poised to continue its mission of empowering students and strengthening the local workforce for years to come.