Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center
Learning that works for North Carolina
Explore Career & Technical Education Programs
Discover hands-on training programs that prepare you for high-demand careers. At the Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center, students earn industry certifications, gain real-world experience, and graduate ready for immediate employment or continued education—all tuition-free.
🎓 WHAT STUDENTS & PARENTS NEED TO KNOW
▼Why Choose the Skills Center?
💰 Graduate Career-Ready with ZERO Student Debt
Skills Center students graduate with industry certifications worth $1,000-$5,000+ at no cost to families. Start earning immediately after graduation—no college loans required!
🔑 Key Benefits for Students
Get valuable industry certifications at no cost—credentials employers actively seek
Work with real equipment in professional environments, not just textbooks
Entry-level positions start at $30K-$50K, with experienced professionals earning $60K-$100K+
All programs designed for beginners—learn from expert instructors
Many programs offer articulation agreements—save time and money on college
Graduate with skills employers need NOW—immediate employment opportunities
📚 How It Works
- Half-Day Schedule: Students attend the Skills Center for half the day and complete core academics at their home high school
- Transportation Provided: Bus transportation available from all area high schools
- 2-Year Programs: Most programs follow a progressive 4-level pathway over two years
- Real-World Experience: Work with actual equipment, real patients (healthcare), live customers (culinary), or authentic projects
- Industry Certifications: Earn credentials recognized across North Carolina and nationwide
💼 Career Outcomes
Our programs prepare students for immediate employment in high-demand fields:
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
Skills learned are transferable! Problem-solving, teamwork, technical abilities, and professional certifications are valuable across many careers. Students discover their interests without the cost of college tuition.
Absolutely! Many programs offer college credit through articulation agreements. Students can continue to 2-year or 4-year programs with advanced standing. Plus, they have job skills to work while attending college debt-free.
Yes! Most programs lead to careers starting at $35K-$50K, with experienced professionals earning $60K-$100K+. These are in-demand careers that can't be outsourced—North Carolina needs skilled workers now.
No! All programs are designed for beginners. Expert instructors teach from the ground up using professional equipment and industry-standard practices.
Program tuition is FREE for eligible students. Students only need appropriate clothing (closed-toe shoes, long pants for some programs).
Contact your School Counselor or CTE Career Development Coordinator to start the enrollment process. They'll help with course selection and scheduling.
📱 Ready to Learn More?
Contact your School Counselor or CTE Career Development Coordinator to explore programs, schedule a tour, or begin enrollment.
Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center
Phone: (910) 989-2020
Website: rsc.onslow.k12.nc.us
📋 QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
▼Helpful Information for Counselors, Educators, and Families
💡 Key Messages About Skills Center Programs
- Earn While You Learn: Get industry certifications at no cost to students
- Real-World Experience: Hands-on training with professional equipment in actual work environments
- Strong Career Prospects: All programs lead to high-demand, well-paying careers
- No Prior Experience Needed: Programs are designed for beginners
- College Credit Opportunities: Many programs offer articulation agreements with community colleges
- Free Training: Industry certifications worth thousands of dollars provided at no cost
🎯 Is CTE Right for Me?
CTE programs are perfect if you:
- Want hands-on learning instead of traditional classroom-only education
- Are ready to graduate with job-ready skills and certifications
- Want to explore careers before committing to a 4-year degree
- Are interested in careers with strong earning potential right out of high school
- Want to save money on college by earning credits in high school
CTE isn't instead of college—it's a smart path that gives you options. Many students continue to community college or 4-year programs with advanced standing.
💼 Common Questions Answered
Q: What if I change my mind about this career?
The skills you learn are transferable. Problem-solving, teamwork, technical skills, and professional certifications are valuable in many careers. Plus, you'll discover what you love (or don't) before paying for college.
Q: Will this limit my college options?
Not at all. Many programs offer college credit through articulation agreements. You can continue to 2-year or 4-year programs with advanced standing, saving time and money. You'll also have job skills to work while attending college.
Q: Are these 'real' jobs with good pay?
Absolutely. Most programs lead to careers with starting salaries of $35K-$50K, with experienced professionals earning $60K-$100K+. These are in-demand careers that can't be outsourced—NC needs skilled workers now.
📞 How to Get Started
- Explore Programs: Review program pages below to identify interests
- Watch Videos: View program videos to visualize career paths
- Talk to Your Counselor: Contact your School Counselor or CTE Career Development Coordinator for guidance
- Visit the Skills Center: Schedule a tour to see facilities and meet instructors
- Apply: Complete the enrollment process (see program prerequisites)
🎓 Skills Center vs. Traditional Track
| Skills Center Programs | Traditional Academic Track |
|---|---|
| Graduate with industry certifications | Graduate with diploma only |
| Job-ready skills from day one | Requires additional training for most careers |
| Hands-on, real-world experience | Primarily classroom-based learning |
| Free industry certifications (value: $1,000-$5,000+) | Pay for training/certifications after graduation |
| Clear career pathway with salary info | General preparation, career path unclear |
| Option to continue to college with credits | Must start college from scratch |
📱 Contact Information
Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center
Phone: (910) 989-2020
Website: rsc.onslow.k12.nc.us
For program-specific questions, see instructor contact information in each program section below.
PUBLIC SERVICES
▼Nursing Fundamentals & Practicum
Start your healthcare journey and learn to care for patients as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). Gain hands-on skills to help people in hospitals, nursing homes, and more while preparing for a career in medicine.
Program Overview
This course prepares students for entry-level healthcare careers, specifically as Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs). Students gain practical experience in patient care, medical terminology, vital signs, and clinical procedures.
Career Opportunities
- Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
- Patient Care Technician
- Home Health Aide
- Medical Assistant (with additional training)
Certifications Available
- NC Certified Nurse Aide I (CNA I) - State Certification
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level CNA: $28,000 - $32,000/year
- Experienced CNA: $32,000 - $38,000/year
- Specialized facilities: $35,000 - $42,000/year
Prerequisites
- Health Science I & II
- BLS for Healthcare Providers (CPR)
Clinical Requirements
- Meeting course requirements plus Photo ID card, Social Security card, TB skin test within past 12 months and immunizations (MMR, varicella - chickenpox, Hepatitis B, influenza - seasonal flu)
Medical Assisting
Learn how to help doctors and patients by scheduling appointments, assisting in procedures, and managing medications. Build teamwork and organization skills while preparing for a career in healthcare.
Program Overview
Medical Assisting prepares students for both clinical and administrative roles in healthcare settings. Students learn patient care, medical office procedures, insurance processing, and medical terminology.
Career Opportunities
- Medical Assistant
- Clinical Assistant
- Medical Office Specialist
- Phlebotomy Technician (with additional certification)
Certifications Available
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level: $30,000 - $35,000/year
- Experienced: $35,000 - $42,000/year
- Specialized practices: $40,000 - $48,000/year
Prerequisites
- Health Science I & II
- BLS for Healthcare Providers (CPR)
- OSHA-10 Healthcare
Clinical Requirements
- Meeting course requirements plus Photo ID card, Social Security card, TB skin test within past 12 months and immunizations (MMR, varicella - chickenpox, Hepatitis B, influenza - seasonal flu)
Culinary Arts & Hospitality
Learn to cook, bake, and create amazing meals while gaining real experience in a school-based restaurant. Build skills in menu planning, customer service, and more to start your journey toward a career as a chef!
Program Overview
Students operate in a commercial kitchen in a real restaurant environment learning culinary techniques, food safety, menu planning, and hospitality management. The program emphasizes both culinary arts and business aspects of the food service industry. Students gain hands-on experience in the student-run restaurant, Kitchen 261 at Burton Park. Follow Kitchen 261 on Facebook
Career Opportunities
- Chef de Partie (Line Cook)
- Sous Chef
- Pastry Chef
- Restaurant Manager
- Catering Professional
Certifications Available
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification
- ServSafe Manager Certification
- ProStart National Certificate of Achievement (Year 1 & 2)
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level Line Cook: $28,000 - $32,000/year
- Experienced Chef: $35,000 - $45,000/year
- Sous Chef/Kitchen Manager: $40,000 - $55,000/year
- Executive Chef: $50,000 - $75,000+/year
Firefighter Technology
Train to become a firefighter by learning fire suppression, rescue skills, and ladder operations. Earn important certifications and get ready for an exciting career serving your community! *Be ADVISED: This program involves rigorous physical activity.
Program Overview
This intensive program prepares students for careers in fire service through hands-on training in fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical services. Students complete approximately three-quarters of the Firefighter I & II certification requirements, providing a strong foundation for entering the fire service. Students must be physically fit and prepared for rigorous training.
Career Opportunities
- Firefighter
- Fire Inspector
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Fire Prevention Specialist
- Wildland Firefighter
Certifications Available
- Substantial completion of Firefighter I & II certification requirements (approximately 75% of curriculum)
- CPR/AED/First Aid Certification
- Emergency Vehicle Operations
Note: Hazardous Materials Operations is not covered in this program. Students can complete remaining Firefighter I & II requirements after graduation.
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level Firefighter (0-3 years): $33,000 - $75,000/year (federal firefighters can start at $60,000-$75,000)
- Experienced Firefighter (4-10 years): $42,000 - $75,000/year
- Fire Lieutenant: $50,000 - $85,000/year
- Fire Captain: $58,000 - $100,000/year
Physical Requirements
Important: This program requires rigorous physical activity including carrying heavy equipment, climbing ladders, and working in demanding conditions. Students must maintain physical fitness throughout the program.
Emergency Medical Technology NEW
Train to respond to medical emergencies and save lives. Learn patient assessment, trauma care, and life-saving techniques while earning industry-recognized certifications—right here in high school.
Program Overview
The Emergency Medical Technology (EMT) program prepares students for careers in emergency medical services and healthcare. Through classroom instruction, hands-on skills training, and realistic emergency simulations, students develop the knowledge and confidence to respond to medical and traumatic emergencies in pre-hospital settings.
Two-Course Pathway
Emergency Medical Technology I (IP21): Introduces students to emergency medical systems, patient assessment, and responder responsibilities. Covers foundational anatomy and physiology, emergency procedures, and operation of basic medical equipment. Credential: Emergency Medical Responder (EMR).
Emergency Medical Technology II (IP22): Advanced course building on EMT I skills. Focuses on real-world scenario application, advanced emergency interventions, critical thinking, and preparation for postsecondary EMS training.
What Students Will Learn
- Patient assessment and basic life support techniques
- Emergency response to trauma and medical situations
- Use of EMS equipment and life-saving tools
- Anatomy and physiology for emergency care
- Teamwork, communication, and decision-making under pressure
Career Opportunities
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Paramedic
- Firefighter
- Emergency Services Professional
- Healthcare Technician
Certifications Available
- Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider
- Stop the Bleed
- National Incident Management System (NIMS)
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): $35,000 - $45,000/year
- Advanced EMT / Paramedic: $45,000 - $60,000/year
- Flight Paramedic / Specialist: $55,000 - $75,000+/year
- EMS Supervisor / Director: $60,000 - $85,000/year
Prerequisites & Requirements
- Prerequisite: English II
- Age Requirement: Students must be 17 years of age on or before the date the grade is entered for the course (per NCOEMS requirements)
- Enrollment Limit: 20 students per class (seats fill quickly—register early)
SKILLED TRADES
▼Automotive Service Technology
Learn to fix cars, work on engines, and solve problems with advanced tools and skills. Get hands-on training for an exciting career in automotive repair!
Program Overview
Automotive Service Technology (AST) prepares students with the technical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and professional practices required for high-skill, in-demand careers in automotive service. The four-course pathway combines classroom instruction, industry-aligned standards, and extensive hands-on shop experience to prepare students for entry into the workforce and ASE Maintenance & Light Repair (G1 MLR) credentialing.
What Students Will Learn
- Safety, shop procedures, PPE and proper vehicle lifting
- Basic maintenance: oil/filter service, fluid inspections, lighting and battery service
- Brake systems: inspections, disc brake service, rotor refinishing
- Electrical fundamentals and diagnostics using a digital multimeter
- Tire service: dismount/remount, repair, and wheel balancing
- Drivetrain, transmission, differential, and fluid service
- Scan-tool (OBD-II) diagnostics, module code retrieval, and drivability troubleshooting
- Suspension and steering inspection/service and alignment preparation
- ABS/TCS/ESC system fundamentals and advanced HVAC (refrigerant recovery/recharge)
Four-Course Pathway
Automotive Service Fundamentals: Introduces automotive safety, PPE, basic terminology, system identification, hand tools and shop equipment, oil/filter service, vehicle lifting procedures, and lighting inspection. Aligned to NATEF MLR requirements.
Automotive Service I: Develops skills for scheduled maintenance and light repair including brake inspection, disc brake service, electrical testing with digital multimeter, tire inspection/repair and wheel balancing, with continued emphasis on safe shop practices.
Automotive Service II: Expands maintenance and diagnostic skills to include powertrain and driveline fluid service, cooling system service, belts and hoses inspection/replacement, emission control system basics, and scan-tool (OBD-II) data retrieval and diagnosis.
Automotive Service III: Capstone course focusing on advanced diagnostics: electrical troubleshooting, comprehensive OBD-II drivability and module code diagnosis, electronic brake control systems (ABS/TCS/ESC), and advanced HVAC service including refrigerant recovery/recharge.
Career Opportunities
- Automotive Service Technician
- Automotive Diagnostic Technician
- Service Advisor
- Shop Foreman
- Automotive Specialist (Transmission, Electrical, etc.)
Certifications Available
- S/P2 Automotive Service Safety
- S/P2 Automotive Service Pollution Prevention
- Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) "Lifting It Right"
- ASE Entry-Level G1 Maintenance and Light Repair
- ASE Entry-Level Automobile Brakes
- ASE Entry-Level Automobile Electrical/Electronic Systems
- ASE Entry-Level Automobile Suspension and Steering
Industry Alignment & Student Support
- Curriculum aligned to ASE Education Foundation and NATEF Maintenance & Light Repair (MLR) requirements
- SkillsUSA integration and work-based learning opportunities (job shadowing, internships, co-op)
- Preparation for ASE entry-level credentials and postsecondary/apprenticeship pathways
Program Requirements
- Required footwear: Steel-toe or composite-toe shoes/boots (not provided by school - student purchase)
- Shop PPE: Coveralls and safety glasses provided (students may purchase their own)
- Shop policy: No jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings) allowed in shop
- Prerequisites: Students must demonstrate basic math, reading, and writing proficiency
- Shop conditions: Physically active, noisy, and may be dirty—appropriate clothing recommended
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level Technician: $32,000 - $38,000/year
- Experienced Technician: $40,000 - $55,000/year
- Master Technician: $55,000 - $75,000+/year
- Shop Foreman/Manager: $60,000 - $85,000/year
Auto Body Repair
Learn to fix, paint, and restore cars using professional tools and techniques. Get hands-on training and I-CAR certification to start your career in auto body repair!
Program Overview
Students learn collision repair, painting, and refinishing techniques on damaged vehicles. The program includes structural repair, paint matching, welding, and frame straightening using industry-standard equipment. The curriculum utilizes the I-CAR Academy training platform, the industry standard for collision repair education.
Two-Course Pathway
Automotive Body Repair I (IT35): Introduction to collision repair fundamentals including safety, tools, equipment, basic repair techniques, and surface preparation.
Automotive Body Repair II Honors (IT36): Advanced collision repair including structural repair, welding, paint refinishing, color matching, and professional detailing techniques.
Career Opportunities
- Collision Repair Technician
- Automotive Painter
- Frame Technician
- Body Shop Estimator
- Paint Department Manager
Certifications Available
- Automotive Body Repair I (IT35):
- I-CAR Academy Collision Repair Fundamentals
- S/P2 Collision Repair and Refinish Safety
- S/P2 Collision Repair and Refinish Pollution Prevention
- Automotive Body Repair II Honors (IT36):
- I-CAR Academy Disassembly and Reassembly
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level Technician: $32,000 - $40,000/year
- Experienced Technician: $42,000 - $58,000/year
- Master Technician/Painter: $55,000 - $75,000+/year
- Shop Manager: $60,000 - $85,000/year
HVAC/R - Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
Learn to fix heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems while getting hands-on experience. Prepare for a career keeping homes and businesses comfortable year-round!
Program Overview
Students gain comprehensive training in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. The program covers installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of residential and commercial HVAC systems.
Career Opportunities
- HVAC Technician
- Refrigeration Technician
- HVAC Installer
- Service Technician
- HVAC System Designer
Certifications Available
- EPA Universal 608 Certification (Required for handling refrigerants)
- NCCER HVAC Certification
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level Technician: $38,000 - $45,000/year
- Experienced Technician: $50,000 - $60,000/year
- Master Technician: $65,000 - $80,000+/year
- Service Manager/Owner: $70,000 - $100,000+/year
High Demand Career
HVAC is one of the fastest-growing trades with consistent year-round work. The field offers excellent job security and opportunities for entrepreneurship.
Welding Technology
Learn to weld metal, use advanced tools, and prepare for important certifications. Get hands-on training for a career in construction and manufacturing!
Program Overview
Students learn multiple welding processes including SMAW (Stick), GMAW (MIG), and FCAW (Flux Core). The program emphasizes safety, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and preparation for AWS certification testing.
Career Opportunities
- Structural Welder
- Pipe Welder
- Manufacturing Welder
- Welding Inspector
- Fabrication Specialist
Certifications Available
- AWS D1.1 qualification in all offered welding processes
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety
- Multiple welding process certifications
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level Welder: $35,000 - $42,000/year
- Experienced Welder: $45,000 - $60,000/year
- Certified Pipe Welder: $55,000 - $75,000+/year
- Welding Inspector/Supervisor: $65,000 - $90,000/year
Industry Demand
Welding skills are in high demand across construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and infrastructure industries. Certified welders enjoy excellent job security and advancement opportunities.
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
▼3D Modeling & Animation/Game Design
Create amazing 3D graphics, build scenes, and bring characters to life with animation. Learn skills for an exciting career in 3D design and animation!
Program Overview
Students learn 3D modeling, animation, texturing, and rendering using industry-standard software. The program covers character creation, environment design, game asset development, and animation principles for careers in gaming, film, and digital media.
Career Opportunities
- 3D Modeler
- 3D Animator
- Game Artist
- Visual Effects Artist
- Character Designer
- Environment Artist
Software & Skills
- Autodesk Maya
- Blender
- Unity Game Engine
- Adobe Creative Suite
- ZBrush (character sculpting)
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level 3D Artist: $38,000 - $48,000/year
- Experienced 3D Modeler: $50,000 - $70,000/year
- Senior Animator: $65,000 - $90,000/year
- Lead Artist/Art Director: $80,000 - $120,000+/year
Network Administration & Cybersecurity
Learn to set up, manage, and protect computer networks while gaining real-world tech skills. Prepare for a great career with hands-on training and an industry certification!
Program Overview
Students learn network infrastructure, system administration, cybersecurity principles, and ethical hacking. The program prepares students for industry certifications and careers protecting digital assets and managing IT infrastructure.
Career Opportunities
- Network Administrator
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- IT Support Specialist
- Systems Administrator
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
- Network Engineer
Certifications Available
- CompTIA A+ (Hardware & Software)
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA (Networking)
Salary Expectations (NC)
- Entry-level IT Support: $40,000 - $50,000/year
- Network Administrator: $55,000 - $75,000/year
- Cybersecurity Analyst: $65,000 - $90,000/year
- Senior Security Engineer: $85,000 - $120,000+/year
High-Demand Field
Cybersecurity and network administration are among the fastest-growing career fields with a critical shortage of qualified professionals. Excellent job security and advancement potential.