One Year In a Row

Kathy and I were watching an old movie recently when the hero described his friends as “my people.” In that moment, I was reminded how powerful it is to find individuals who share your interests, values, and dreams.

McDowell Tech Offering No-Cost Early Childhood Academy, July 14th–25th

McDowell Technical Community College is debuting a free, fast-track Early Childhood Academy from July 14th to 25th, offering both workforce credentials and academic credit for Introduction to Early Childhood (EDU 119). The program is designed for individuals preparing for careers in childcare centers, preschools, Head Start, and other early childhood education settings.

Dillard is 2025 McDowell Tech Excellence in Teaching Award Winner

McDowell Technical Community College proudly announced John Dillard, longtime History and Sociology instructor, as the recipient of this year’s prestigious Excellence in Teaching Award during the college’s recent commencement.

McDowell Technical Community College Honors 2025 Alumni Award Recipients

McDowell Technical Community College proudly announced the recipients of its 6th Annual Alumni Awards during the college’s recent commencement. These awards recognize outstanding alumni for excellence in career achievement and exceptional service to the college and our community. The 2025 honorees represent more than 35 years of McDowell Tech graduates making a lasting impact in McDowell County and beyond.

PCEA Donates $15,000 to Support Construction Trades Education at MTCC

McDowell Technical Community College announced today that the Professional Construction Estimators Association (PCEA) has donated $15,000 to strengthen the college’s Construction Trades programs, helping train the next generation of skilled construction professionals. McDowell Tech will further enhance hands-on learning experiences for students, including high school outreach efforts using mobile training units, and to develop new coursework aligned with industry needs.

Borden & Cross Families Create Scholarship Legacy at McDowell Technical Community College

Dozens of community leaders, alumni and friends recently gathered in the W. Harold Smith Building at McDowell Technical Community College (MTCC) to dedicate five classrooms and celebrate a new $50,000 endowed scholarship created by John & Carole Borden and Chip & Dr. Penny Cross. Their joint gift—augmented by federal Title III matching funds—will provide need-based awards to McDowell Tech students in perpetuity.

Right Where You Belong

MTCC Honors List Recipients, Spring 2025

Congratulations to the following students who made the Dean’s, President’s and Honors Lists at McDowell Technical Community College during the fall semester, 2024:

McDowell Tech Awarded $25,000 Duke Energy Foundation Grant for HVAC Students

McDowell Technical Community College is among 19 North Carolina community colleges recently selected to receive funding from the Duke Energy Foundation as part of a $500,000 statewide workforce development initiative. The college was awarded $25,000 to support its innovative HVAC training program focused on A2L refrigerant technology—an environmentally friendly alternative that represents the future of the heating and cooling industry.

Dreams Come True at McDowell Tech

The McDowell Tech commencement ceremonies are more than formal traditions—they’re powerful celebrations of dreams realized. As I handed Emilee Brooks her diploma this spring, a young man rushed the stage, knelt down, and proposed marriage. In that moment, two dreams came true—one academic, one personal—and the crowd erupted in celebration.