Cleveland Community College congratulates its long-standing partner, Greenheck Group, on receiving the Outstanding Employer Award from the North Carolina Work-Based Learning Association (NCWBLA).The award was presented during the Association's annual conference held in Asheville on November 6.
The Outstanding Employer Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to workbased learning and make a lasting impact on students, communities, and the local economy. Since 2007, Greenheck Group has been a valued partner of CCC, creating meaningful educational and economic opportunities for students in Cleveland County. With five facilities located near the College, Greenheck has worked closely with faculty and staff to provide students with real-world learning experiences that bridge the gap between education and employment.
Through programs such as Apprenticeship Cleveland, Greenheck offers students the opportunity to earn while they learn--gaining hands-on skills, industry knowledge, and pathways to rewarding careers close to home. This collaboration benefits both students and local employers while strengthening the region's economic foundation. The Outstanding Employer Award was presented to Greenheck Group by Jaime Henderson, director of College and Career Readiness at CCC. She nominated Greenheck for the award while she served as the Work-Based Learning coordinator. She was joined for the presentation by Sharon Nivens, director of Apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning, and Dr. Bruce Mack, vice president of Academic Affairs. Accepting the award on behalf of Greenheck were Chuck Benton, Kamryn Spangler, and Alexander Self. "Greenheck doesn't just invest in programs; they invest in people," Henderson said. "They believe that when you invest in people, you strengthen both your workforce and your community. That belief shows in everything they do."
Greenheck's leadership team actively supports workforce development initiatives through advisory committee service, hosting interns, participating in customized training, and engaging directly with students through facility tours, classroom visits, and mentorship opportunities.
Greenheck's partnership with CCC exemplifies how collaboration between industry and education can build a stronger community. Their investment in CCC's students helps shape the workforce of tomorrow and fuels the growth of Cleveland County and beyond.