Mayland Community College has been selected as one of just 11 community colleges across North Carolina to participate in the Good Jobs Initiative, a strategic effort designed to connect students to high-quality, in-demand careers that support long-term economic mobility.
Supported by the Belk Foundation, the initiative brings together leading community colleges to align education, workforce training, and employer needs—ensuring students gain access to careers that offer sustainable wages, growth opportunities, and long-term stability.
As part of the initiative, a team from the WNC Good Jobs collaborative recently visited Mayland’s Yancey Learning Center, where they met with college leadership, faculty, and workforce partners to explore how Mayland is already fueling economic growth across Mitchell, Avery, and Yancey counties.
“This initiative reflects the direction we’re already moving—ensuring our students are not just getting an education, but stepping into meaningful, well-paying careers,” said Dr. Aron Gabriel, President of Mayland Community College. “Our role is to connect opportunity to the people and communities we serve.”
Mayland’s participation places the college at the forefront of a broader statewide effort, with plans to expand the model across additional North Carolina community colleges in the future. For the communities of Western North Carolina, the impact is significant. By strengthening pathways between education and employment, the initiative helps:
“Programs like this are essential for rural communities,” said Bryan Peterson, human resources manager at Altec Industries, Inc. “They ensure talent stays local and businesses have the workforce they need to grow.”
Mayland Community College continues to build on its commitment to workforce development through innovative programs, employer partnerships, and hands-on training opportunities that prepare students for today’s evolving job market.
To learn more about workforce programs at Mayland Community College, visit:
www.mayland.edu
