North Raleigh Today

Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order to establish a Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships in North Carolina. The council will be chaired by Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley, State Senator Eddie Settle, and NC Community Colleges President Dr. Jeffrey Cox. This initiative aims to enhance workforce development and apprenticeship programs across the state.

Governor Stein emphasized the importance of investing in people for the state's future. "Our state’s greatest asset is our people, and to invest in our future, we must invest in our people," he stated. He expressed pride in launching the council to ensure that North Carolinians can achieve success regardless of their background.

Lee Lilley, Secretary of the NC Department of Commerce, highlighted the significance of North Carolina's workforce in supporting the business climate. "North Carolina’s workforce is the backbone of our thriving business climate," he said, expressing eagerness to collaborate on strategies that benefit workers and businesses alike.

State Senator Eddie Settle noted the need for skilled workers throughout North Carolina's communities. "There is a lot of good work being done around North Carolina’s main streets and towns, and they need skilled workers to reap the benefits of our growing economy," he remarked.

Dr. Jeffrey Cox, President of the NC Community College System, expressed his commitment to expanding apprenticeship programs and other credential initiatives. "I am proud to co-chair this Council...to ensure our NC Community College System continues to expand apprenticeship and other workforce credential programs," he stated.

Governor Stein has been active in promoting education and job opportunities across North Carolina. In recent months, he visited Wake Tech Community College during Career and Technical Education Month and collaborated with Surry-Yadkin Works and Altec Industries on a new program called FLEET (Fostering Learning through Education, Employment, and Trades). His budget proposal includes $256 million for workforce development initiatives and offers free community college for students pursuing high-demand fields.