N※N

SCC's New Transportation Tech Building Nears Completion

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. ansportation-tech-building-nears-completion.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 15:51 GMT by WECT
      Locales: North Carolina, UNITED STATES

WHITEVILLE, N.C. (January 28, 2026) - Southeastern Community College (SCC) took a significant step forward in addressing a growing regional need with a beam signing ceremony on Wednesday, marking the completion of the structural steel phase of its new Transportation Technology Building. The event, attended by SCC leadership, board members, generous donors, and key stakeholders, signifies more than just architectural progress - it represents a commitment to bridging the widening skills gap in the transportation industry.

For years, North Carolina, and the nation as a whole, has been grappling with a shortage of qualified professionals in crucial transportation roles. From truck drivers and aviation maintenance technicians to logistics specialists and infrastructure experts, the demand for skilled workers consistently outpaces the supply. This shortage isn't just an economic inconvenience; it impacts supply chains, increases costs for consumers, and potentially hinders economic growth. SCC's new facility is a direct response to these challenges, designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge employers are actively seeking.

The Transportation Technology Building will house several key programs. The highly anticipated truck driving program aims to alleviate the persistent national truck driver shortage. With an aging workforce and increasing freight demands, the need for new, qualified drivers is paramount. The program will provide comprehensive training, including both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel experience, preparing graduates to obtain their commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) and enter a stable, well-paying career.

Beyond trucking, the facility will also feature a state-of-the-art aviation maintenance program. The demand for aircraft maintenance technicians is soaring, driven by a growing aviation sector and the increasing complexity of modern aircraft. This program will provide students with hands-on training in aircraft repair, inspection, and maintenance, ensuring they meet the stringent standards of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Graduates will be well-positioned to secure employment with airlines, private aviation companies, and aircraft repair facilities.

Dr. Lynne Tofano, SCC President, emphasized the college's commitment to workforce development. "We know that there's a critical workforce need in the transportation sector, and Southeastern Community College is excited to be a part of the solution," she stated. The college isn't simply offering training programs; they are actively collaborating with local and regional employers to ensure curriculum relevance and responsiveness to evolving industry needs. This collaboration includes advisory boards comprised of industry professionals, internships, and apprenticeship opportunities for students.

The project's funding model is a testament to the broad recognition of this critical need. A combination of state appropriations, federal grants, and local fundraising efforts has made the construction of the Transportation Technology Building possible. This multi-faceted approach underscores the importance placed on investing in workforce development by various levels of government and the local community. The college worked closely with county and state officials to secure the necessary funding and approvals.

Construction is currently on schedule, and the Transportation Technology Building is expected to open its doors in late 2026. This timing is particularly crucial, as the demand for transportation professionals is projected to continue growing in the coming years. SCC officials anticipate a significant increase in enrollment in transportation-related programs once the new facility is operational. The building will not only provide much-needed classroom and lab space but also feature cutting-edge simulation technology, allowing students to practice their skills in a safe and realistic environment.

The impact of this new facility will extend beyond simply filling job vacancies. By providing accessible and affordable training, SCC is empowering individuals to pursue rewarding careers and contribute to the economic vitality of the region. The Transportation Technology Building represents a strategic investment in the future, ensuring that Southeastern North Carolina has a skilled workforce ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st-century transportation landscape.