Western Piedmont “Breaks Through Barriers” at the Grand Opening of the new Regional Skilled Trades Solution Center

Western Piedmont Community College held its grand opening for its new Regional Skilled Trades Solution Center on September 19, 2023. WPCC first broke ground on the 17,000-square-foot center in April 2022 and planned to open in Fall 2023. The new center will offer training in carpentry, masonry, electrical technologies, HVAC, plumbing, and green construction principles.

Breaking Through Barriers.

People from the community came out to see the new building, toured the space, and were able to try different hands-on activities demonstrated by students and staff. There were also many speakers that came to commemorate the opening. President Dr. Welch opened up the evening and spoke about the importance that WPCC will serve with the new space. He was followed by Dr. Jeff Cox, NC Community College System President, Ms. Amy Kincaid, WPCC Board of Trustees Chair, Senator Warren Daniel, Mr. Scott Hamilton, Golden Leaf Foundation President & CEO, and lastly our keynote speaker Nora El-Khouri Spencer, Hope Renovations Founder & CEO. 

Nora spoke about her mission to empower underemployed women by engaging them in the construction trades as they help older adults access the repairs and renovations they need to stay in their homes as they age. Nora is an NC Licensed Building Contractor from Chapel Hill. She also spoke about women in the profession and to bring more awareness to the opportunities in construction trades. 

Western Piedmont Community College is proud and excited to continue to serve the region by providing training for quality jobs.