McDowell Technical Community College

In response to the recent layoff affecting approximately 90 workers from Baxter Healthcare, one of McDowell County’s largest employers, McDowell Technical Community College has mobilized a wide range of services to help individuals transition to new employment, upgrade their skills, or prepare for a new career.

Sarah Jaynes with Kayla Sharp — Sarah Jaynes, Access to Achievement Coordinator, assists Kayla Sharp in the Smith Academic Resource Center.

Whether individuals are ready to re-enter the workforce immediately, pursue short-term training, or begin a new educational pathway, the college and its partners are prepared to provide personalized support, career guidance, and financial assistance for those who qualify.

“Losing a job is never easy,” said Dr. J.W. Kelley, president of McDowell Technical Community College. “At McDowell Tech, we are committed to walking alongside our neighbors with care, support and sincerity. Whether through short-term training, academic programs, or career services, we’re reliable and accessible, helping individuals regain confidence, learn new skills and find meaningful work. You are not alone, and You Are Right Where You Belong.”

Immediate Job Search and Career Support

Many displaced workers may benefit first from services offered through the Human Resources Development (HRD) and College and Career Readiness (CCR) programs, located at the Ford Miller Building, 316 Baldwin Avenue in Marion.

Available services include:

· Resume development and updating

· Interview preparation and mock interviews

· Job search strategies and networking techniques

· Transferable skills identification

· Workforce Readiness Boot Camp

· Basic digital literacy and computer skills

· Financial literacy and workplace success skills

· Career Readiness Certification preparation

For specific days and times, individuals may call or visit the Ford Miller Building, or check the college’s Facebook page at facebook.com/mcdowelltech.

For more information or to register, contact Pam Price at (828) 659-6001, Ext. 131, or Jimmy Hensley at (828) 659-6001, Ext. 140.

Short-Term Training and Apprenticeships

McDowell Technical Community College offers a variety of Continuing Education programs designed to lead to employment in high-demand fields. Many programs can be completed in a matter of weeks or months and include work-based learning or apprenticeship opportunities.

Current opportunities include:

· Construction Trades Academy, Plumbing, Electrical, and Heavy Equipment programs, offered free through support from the Carolina’s Association of General Contractors (available one time per participant).

· Early Childhood Education Academy, offered free through a Dogwood Grant.

· Additional programs that may qualify for scholarships through Golden LEAF, Short-Term Workforce Development (STWD), and NCSECU.

A current listing of programs is available at www.mcdowelltech.edu/workforce-development.

Degree, Diploma, and Certificate Options

Individuals seeking a longer-term career change may enroll in curriculum programs to earn a certificate, diploma, or associate degree in fields such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, business, information technology, and more.

Those interested in enrolling should visit the One Stop Center located in the Cedar Building on the main campus at 54 College Drive in Marion.

Admissions and financial aid staff are available to discuss program options and available financial assistance.

A Path Forward

“Our community is resilient, and we want every displaced worker to know they are not alone,” Dr. Kelley added. “Whether someone needs help finding a job right away or wants to train for a completely new career, we are here to help them take the next step.”