Asheboro, NC – October 10, 2024 – Asheboro High School, in collaboration with Randolph Community College (RCC), is excited to announce the expansion of its career academies, designed to provide students with industry-focused training and a direct pathway to successful careers, referred to as Blue Comet Academies. The partnership, which began in 2018 with the Automotive Academy, has now been revamped into the Collision Repair Academy and expanded to include four new dynamic programs: Light Duty Diesel, Zoo Horticulture, Advanced Manufacturing, and Community Support Services.
Each of these career academies offers students hands-on experience and specialized training in high-demand fields, preparing them for immediate entry into the workforce or further post-secondary education. Through the College and Career Promise program, Randolph Community College provides free tuition to Asheboro High School students enrolled in these academies, while Asheboro City Schools offers free transportation, ensuring equitable access to these opportunities.
Key features of the partnership include:
Free tuition for Asheboro High School students, thanks to the College and Career Promise program at RCC.
Free transportation provided by Asheboro City Schools, ensuring that no student is hindered by transportation challenges.
RCC's commitment to protecting course sections specifically for Asheboro High School students, giving them priority access to these valuable programs.
The opportunity for students to earn a diploma, certificate, or industry-recognized credential that equips them with the skills needed to step directly into a career or pursue further education.
Asheboro City Schools CTE Director, Sarah Beth Cox, expressed enthusiasm about the growing partnership: "We are proud to offer our students this set of career academies, which opens doors to meaningful and well-paying careers. By partnering with RCC, we are setting our students up for success in industries that need skilled workers today."
The five career academies now available to Asheboro High School students are:
Collision Repair Academy – A revamped version of the original Automotive Academy, offering training in automotive body repair and refinishing.
Light Duty Diesel Academy – Focused on the maintenance and repair of diesel engines used in smaller vehicles and equipment.
Zoo Horticulture Academy – Provides training in horticultural practices with a focus on zoo environments, a unique and growing field.
Advanced Manufacturing Academy – Offers skills in modern manufacturing processes, technology, and robotics, preparing students for careers in high-tech manufacturing.
Community Support Services Academy – Prepares students for careers in social services, community outreach, and other support roles, which are critical in today’s workforce.
With these academies, Asheboro High School and Randolph Community College are taking proactive steps to prepare students for the future. By combining rigorous academic learning with practical, career-focused training, students will be well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern workforce.
For more information about enrolling in one of these academies, please contact the RCC Career Coach supporting Asheboro High School, Brittney Goldston at [email protected].