McDowell Technical Community College is laying the groundwork for its future by engaging a wide range of stakeholders in a comprehensive strategic planning process designed to reflect the needs, priorities and aspirations of the community it serves.
On November 24, 2025, the college convened six separate focus groups, bringing together students, employees, community partners, funders, government leaders and education collaborators from across McDowell County and Western North Carolina. The sessions, facilitated by Dr. Jess Edwards and Sam Dotson of the Belk Center for Community College Leadership and Research, were structured to gather meaningful input on McDowell Tech’s strengths, opportunities for growth, workforce and community needs and long-term vision. Each session explored what makes McDowell Tech essential to the region and how the institution can best serve students, employers, and families in the years ahead.
"Strategic planning is not something we do in isolation," said Dr. J.W. Kelley, President of McDowell Technical Community College. "It requires us to pause, listen deeply, and understand the needs of our entire community. These conversations help ensure that our next Strategic Plan reflects not only our internal priorities, but also the external expectations and opportunities that will shape McDowell Tech’s future."
Throughout the day, participants shared candid feedback on topics ranging from workforce development challenges and facility needs to the importance of student success stories and community partnerships. Their input will inform the college's next Strategic Plan, ensuring it aligns with both the evolving needs of the region and the mission of providing accessible, high-quality education.
"Every voice at the table brought something valuable," said Dotson. "Whether it was a student sharing what they need to succeed, a funder discussing investment priorities, or a community partner identifying workforce gaps, each perspective helps us see the full picture of where McDowell Tech needs to be headed."
Dr. Edwards added, "What stood out most was the genuine care everyone has for this institution and this community. People want McDowell Tech to thrive, and they're willing to invest their time, ideas, and energy to make that happen."
As part of the broader engagement process, the McDowell Technical Community College Board of Trustees also participated in a dedicated strategic planning session on December 5, 2025, contributing their perspectives on the college's role in economic development, visibility, leadership, and long-term growth and sustainability.
As the strategic planning process continues, the college will synthesize the input gathered from these sessions and work collaboratively to build a roadmap to guide institutional priorities, goals and resource planning over the coming years.
“McDowell Tech exists to serve students and our community,” said Kelley. “The insight we gain through this process will strengthen our ability to meet workforce needs, support student success, and contribute to the economic vitality of our region. This work reflects our shared belief that McDowell Tech should continue to be a place where everyone can learn, grow and thrive, right where they belong.”
Learn More About McDowell Tech's Leadership
To learn more about the McDowell Technical Community College Board of Trustees and their role in guiding the college's future, visit: https://mcdowelltech.edu/board-of-trustees
