Twelve high school students from area high schools will be attending Lenoir Community College this summer as part of the first SEED (Southeastern Education & Economic) Program, a seven-week summer advanced manufacturing academy. 

The kickoff for the first SEED Program was held Monday for programs at LCC and Wayne Community College. SEED is an initiative of the North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE) and is sponsored by Smithfield Foods. The program is open to high school students and recent graduates. 

The academy is a comprehensive approach to learning, allowing students the unique opportunity to explore the world of industrial systems through a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, all while getting paid.

Students will take six college credits that will transfer to an adult apprenticeship they choose under the Industrial Systems Technology Program at LCC, according to LCC Associate Dean of Business Development and Partnerships Dr. Dusk Stroud. “Classes will be centered on Industrial Systems Technology, Mechatronics and Engineering. Students will also visit local businesses and industries as part of their learning experience.”

SEED aims to create multiple youth apprenticeship pathways to a variety of careers. These programs allow students to learn and earn, by getting industry recognized credentials at a community college degree at no cost, while completing paid on-the-job training.

“We look forward to the success of these students and we look forward to working with them,” said LCC Senior Vice President of Student Services and Workforce Development Dr. John Paul Black. 

Those participating at LCC are Derek Carrilo, Greene Central High; Christopher Ellison, South Central High; Sebastian Gualito, Greene Central High; Jacquez Johnson, Greene Early College; Ceneque Jones, Kinston High; Camden Matthews, Clinton High; Billy Merrill. Bethel Christian Academy; Claire Mitchell, North Lenoir High; Yahir Morales-Guzman, Greene Central High; Fernando Nunez-Mancilla, Greene Early College; Matthew Perkins, South Central High; and Dorian Sutton, Kinston High.

SEED participants attending Lenoir Community College, left to right, front row, are Matthew Perkins, Christopher Ellison, Ceneque Jones, Dorian Sutton, and Jacquez Johnson; back row, Camden Matthews, Fernando Nunez-Mancilla, Billy Merrill, Derek Carrilo and Sabastian Gualito,