The Southeastern Education and Economic Development (SEED) initiative is offering two pre-apprenticeship academies at Wayne Community College this summer for students interested in industrial systems and agricultural science.
In addition to the advanced manufacturing academy that was successfully launched last summer, SEED will also provide an agriculture academy at WCC this year. Those who are 16 years of age on or before May 21, 2025, are eligible to apply for the academies.
The eight-week programs offer classroom instruction led by industry professionals, hands-on learning experience, weekly field trips to local businesses, monthly stipends to help with travel and supplies costs, and up to 15 college credits transferrable to a registered apprenticeship or associate-degree program. The academies will be held Monday through Thursday for a total of 25–28 hours per week, and participants are paid $15 per hour.
Students and a parent/guardian are required to attend an information session before applying for an academy. Information sessions will be held at WCC on Thursday, Jan. 23, and Monday, Feb. 10, at 6 p.m. in the CITE Building. Register for a session here.
SEED academies are also being offered at James Sprunt, Lenoir, Sampson, and Wilson community colleges.
Created through the North Carolina Business Committee for Education and sponsored by Smithfield Foods, SEED was developed to provide career exploration and work-based learning opportunities for students. SEED participants are able to learn and earn while getting industry-recognized credentials at no cost to them.
For more information and to apply for an academy, visit SEED’s website. The application period closes Friday, Feb. 14.
WCC encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing accommodations or have questions about access, contact the Accessibility Counselor at 919-739-6729.
About Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College is a public, learning-centered institution with an open-door admission policy located in Goldsboro, N.C. As it works to develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, the college serves around 10,000 individuals annually as well as businesses, industry, and community organizations with high quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities, including more than 150 college credit programs. WCC’s mission is to meet the educational, training, and cultural needs of the communities it serves.