Alexander County, NC – The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded a $300,000 grant to Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) to modernize equipment used in its skilled trades training programs. CVCC has provided the required 50 percent match, bringing the total investment to $600,000. 

The project will fund the purchase of new equipment for CVCC’s electrical, welding, and HVAC programs, ensuring students are trained on tools and technologies that reflect current industry standards. The majority of the equipment upgrades will be located at CVCC’s Alexander Education Center, where an additional $120,000 in capital investment is being made to strengthen technical training opportunities. 

“This investment will allow us to give students hands-on experience with the same types of equipment they will encounter on the job,” said Dr. Garrett Hinshaw, President of Catawba Valley Community College. “By modernizing our programs, we are expanding opportunities for residents of both Alexander and Catawba counties while also supporting the workforce needs of local employers. These updates ensure that our graduates are job-ready and competitive in a rapidly changing economy.” 

“ARC is proud to support this project that gives students access to the resources they need to succeed in today’s economy,” said Jim McCleskey, Director of the NC Washington Office and Governor Stein’s ARC Alternate. “Up-to-date training equipment helps ensure that Appalachian communities have the skilled workforce needed to attract and retain business investment. This project demonstrates the power of partnership in building stronger futures for our region.” 

“This is so exciting,” said Marty Pennell, Chairman of the Alexander County Board of Commissioners. “These new resources will aid students through hands-on training in simulated real-world scenarios. Investments like this not only prepare our students for success but also strengthen our community and its workforce for years to come.” 

Vice President for Teaching and Learning, Brice Melton, expressed special appreciation to the School of Career and Technical Education whose leadership and dedication made this grant possible: Dean Aden Cranford, Department Head Ramie Robinson, and Department Head Mark Sigmon. Their commitment to advancing workforce training in the region was instrumental in securing the award. Special appreciation is also extended to the Western Piedmont Council of Governments (WPCOG), whose leadership and technical expertise played a key role in drafting and securing the grant proposal. 

The project aligns with ARC’s mission to invest in workforce development and expand economic opportunities across Appalachia. By equipping classrooms and labs with industry-standard tools, CVCC will better prepare graduates for high-demand careers while strengthening the region’s competitiveness. 

 

Contact:
Randy Burns
Senior Executive Director for Campus Centers
Alexander Complex & Regional Workforce Innovation Complex
Catawba Valley Community College
230 Industrial Blvd. Taylorsville, NC 28681
828.632.8221 x 302 | rburns.cvcc.edu  

About the Appalachian Regional Commission
The Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development partnership agency of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian region. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia. 

About Catawba Valley Community College
Catawba Valley Community College serves Catawba and Alexander counties, providing accessible, high-quality educational opportunities that prepare students for success in the workforce and in life. CVCC is committed to fostering economic vitality through education, training, and partnerships with business and industry.