RCC’s Highway Construction Trade Academy graduates 9 students
Robeson Community College celebrated its first graduating class of the Highway Construction Trade Academy this past week.
Nine students completed the program – Rohon Atkins, Tyquayle Gause, Benjamin Harris, Christopher Hunt, Kaleb Jameson, Donell McKeithan, Todd McQueen, Larry Tatum, and Quentina Zeigler.
The academy allowed the nine graduates to earn six different certifications, in addition to a course completion certificate. Those certifications included OSHA-10, Flagger, Caterpillar Level I Machine Operator, Forklift Operator, CPR, and First Aid.
“This was the first time the program has been offered at Robeson Community College,” stated Dr. Joshua Locklear, who oversees the program. “These students showed up to class each day ready to work towards completing the requirements of the program and we are so proud of their accomplishments.”
“The academy was made possible through a grant from the North Carolina Department of Transportation…. The NCDOT purchased safety boots, vests, hats, glasses, and gloves, for all the students, as well as all the materials necessary for the students to complete the academy.”
Locklear says that in addition to the certifications earned, students built resumes, participated in mock interviews, completed a business profile, and developed valuable human resources skills.
“This was an amazing opportunity for these nine students,” stated Eric Freeman, the Executive Vice President at RCC. “Students were able to gain skills, add stackable credentials to their resume, network, and learn more about the construction industry at no cost. We congratulate them on their achievements in this program.”
As the students received a certificate for the completion of the program, you could feel the sense of pride in the room as students triumphed to celebrate their success.
“We congratulate the first cohort of the Highway Construction Trade Academy at Robeson Community College,” stated RCC President Melissa Singler. “You have done well. You have achieved many industry-standard certifications that will help make you more competitive in the job market, as you seek new opportunities of employment… We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”
Additional sections of the academy are slated to begin soon. Anyone who is interested in learning more can contact Joshua Locklear at jolocklear@robeson.edu or at 910-272-3680.
