JAMES SPRUNT COMMUNITY COLLEGE HOSTS HANDS-ON WORKFORCE EVENT INTRODUCING DUPLIN COUNTY STUDENTS TO INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY OPPORTUNITIES
James Sprunt Community College recently hosted Duplin County high school students for a hands-on event at its WestPark campus, connecting them to industrial maintenance career opportunities and showcasing the college’s commitment to workforce development.
The event, NextGen Technicians Day, introduced students to the Industrial Systems Technology Program at JSCC. Since launching in 2023, the relatively new program meets a growing industry demand for skilled workers. Students learned about dual enrollment opportunities through Career and College Promise (CCP) and explored the wide range of careers this program offers. Industrial Systems Technology stands out among community colleges, offering students interested in hands-on careers the chance to develop in-demand skills essential to today’s workforce.
Lead Industrial Systems Technology Instructor, Jordan Knowles, said, “NextGen Technicians Day shows our future workforce is already here. Providing hands-on experience in robotics, CNC machining, hydraulics, and industrial systems bridges classroom learning with real-world careers. These students are building the foundation for our industry’s future.”
Students rotated through four stations, each offering hands-on exposure to different aspects of the industry.
Station 1: Robotics and Automation
Students operated a robot using a teach pendant.
Station 2: Rigging and Industrial Safety Lab
Students rigged a mock load using slings and a chain hoist.
Station 3: CNC Machining and Manufacturing Lab
Students measured a finished part using calipers and micrometers.
Station 4: Hydraulics and Fluid Power Lab
Students demonstrated hydraulic cylinders and actuators.
Students created products during the sessions and received certificates recognizing their participation and completion of the training before leaving the event.
Susi Burger is the Career Development and Work-Based Learning Coordinator and Technology Academy Coordinator for Duplin County Schools. She said,
“NextGen Technicians Day provided students with meaningful, hands-on exposure to high-demand industrial careers, making classroom learning relevant and real-world. Students were actively engaged as they explored multiple career pathways. This experience helps students make more informed decisions about their future while learning about educational and workforce opportunities. Duplin County Schools is grateful for the partnership we have with James Sprunt Community College.”
A $1,500 grant, led by Elizabeth Howard, JSCC’s Dean of Business and Industry, supported the event. The grant funded instructional supplies, lunch for the forty high school students in attendance, JSCC marketing items, and transportation reimbursement. Howard, who has coordinated many College events, considers this one her favorite. She said, “From Classroom to Career! We are grateful for our partnership with Duplin County Schools and the STEM Outreach Grant for providing opportunities like this for our future workforce. There’s nothing better than seeing students learn by doing!”
Events like NextGen Technicians Day showcase how collaboration between education and industry provides early exposure to high-demand career pathways. James Sprunt Community College continues to equip the next generation with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving workforce.
