Trades Program Gives Student Bright Future
A grant from the Dogwood Health Trust is helping a student at Western Piedmont Community College overcome barriers to build a bright future for himself. 
Eli Thao, a student in the Building Construction Technology program at WPCC, was awarded funds from a multi-year grant the college received from Dogwood to help pay for his tuition, fees and supplies. The grant focuses on reducing barriers to higher education and completion and creating a hands-on job training program promoting employer partnerships in the region.
Annette Benedetti, the college’s advising director, established an Emergency Student Fund as part of the grant activities.
“This fund is targeted to support students who experience hardships through unexpected life events and those who may not qualify for financial aid or in-state tuition due to their immigration status,” Benedetti said.
Thao graduated from Burke Middle College in 2020 and realized he wanted a career that allowed him to work with his hands.
“I saw that WPCC was opening a trade school, so I gave it a shot,” Thao said. “I chose it because it was close to home, and I figured trade would work for me. I am enjoying every bit of it and soaking in the knowledge.”
The Building Construction Technology program attempts to alleviate the shortage of skilled tradespeople in the area. Courses provide hands-on training in basic construction concepts and techniques and the opportunity to develop skills in electrical wiring, plumbing, construction materials, HVAC, solar technology and green building. Students learn how to read blueprints, estimate costs of construction, manage projects and study various styles of construction. Classes take place in WPCC’s new 17,000 square foot Regional Skilled Trades Solutions Center.
Thao is working closely with student success coach Kyndal Propst.
“Eli has excelled in his classes as part of the Building Construction Technology program,” Propst said. “His instructors have let me know he is an engaged and motivated student. Eli is always sure to keep me updated on his progress, whether it be stopping me around campus to let me know how his classes are going or showing me pictures of the latest HVAC job he got to assist with at work. Eli is dedicated to learning about HVAC in and outside of the classroom as he networks with employers and those in his community to expand his knowledge and find opportunities. It is obvious that Eli is passionate about the field, and I am proud of his accomplishments.”
One of his instructors, Steve Tallent, agreed.
“From day one, Eli was very attentive and eager to learn in my heating technology class, and his attendance was excellent,” Tallent said. “I observed that he caught onto and grasped most of the academic portion of the course, as well as the practical labs. Some of the principles of refrigeration theory and thermodynamics can be hard to grasp at first, but Eli did very well, asking good questions.
“By the end of the semester, he showed a good basic grasp of these and other principles and skills. This was a course spent in a more hands-on environment, as are most of the classes I teach. Eli was very involved, displayed a good work ethic, and as a result, I hope, learned some basic skills that will further his pursuit of a career in the trades.”
The Building Construction Technology program offers a variety of options for training. Students who complete the two-year Associate in Applied Science are prepared for entry-level positions in general construction settings. The Light Construction Diploma is a one-year program that teaches students the basic skills required for a job in the construction industry. Certificate programs in carpentry and construction trades provide opportunities to rapidly get skills to find a job or acquire knowledge on specific topics in the construction industry.
Thao is set to graduate with his certificate in December.
“I plan to go into a HVAC company, put in my years and go out toward the beach and start my own business and help family and friends,” Thao said.
He encouraged people interested in a career in the construction trades to check out this innovative program.
“Give it a shot, and if you like it, take it far and explore with it,” Thao said. “It’s OK to start fresh and learn something new. Do the work and come to learn!”
To learn more, visit wpcc.edu.
Dogwood Health Trust is a private foundation based in Asheville, North Carolina with the sole purpose of dramatically improving the health and wellbeing of all people and communities of 18 counties and the Qualla Boundary in Western North Carolina. Dogwood Health Trust focuses on innovative and equitable ways to address the many factors that contribute to overall health and wellbeing. With a focus on housing, education, economic opportunity and health and wellness, Dogwood Health Trust works to create a Western North Carolina where every generation can live, learn, earn and thrive, with dignity and opportunity for all, no exceptions. To learn more, please visit www.dht.org.