Skills Center Program Guide
Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center
Learning that works for North Carolina
Skills Center Program Guide
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, Tuition-Free
Skills Center students graduate with industry certifications worth $1,000–$5,000+ through tuition-free programs—no application required. (Some programs do require students to purchase items like scrubs, boots, or PPE for safety and industry standards; see individual program details below.) Start earning immediately after graduation, with no college loans required!
🔑 Key Benefits for Students
Get valuable, tuition-free industry certifications—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 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, or for continued education with a head start.
🎓 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 |
| Tuition-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 |
🤔 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.
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, and there's no application fee. Some programs require students to purchase specific items—such as closed-toe shoes, scrubs, or safety boots—for safety and industry requirements.
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
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 & Practicum
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 Training (training only, not certification)
Note: Hazardous Materials Operations and Emergency Vehicle Operations are 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.
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.
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 Maintenance and Light Repair
- ASE Entry-Level Electrical/Electronic Systems
Program Requirements
- Required footwear: Steel-toe or composite-toe shoes/boots (student purchase)
- Shop PPE: Coveralls and safety glasses provided; students may purchase their own
- Shop policy: No jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings) allowed in shop
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
Collision Refinishing & Repair Technology (I-CAR Academy)
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 curriculum utilizes the I-CAR Academy training platform, the industry standard for collision repair education.
Career Opportunities
- Collision Repair Technician
- Automotive Painter
- Frame Technician
- Body Shop Estimator
- Paint Department Manager
Certifications Available
I-CAR Academy Badge System
- IT35 - Collision Repair Fundamentals
- IT36 - Disassembly and Reassembly
- IT37 - Plastic Repair*
- IT38 - Aluminum and Steel Small Dent Removal*
- IT39 - Preparation for Refinish*
- ASE Student Certifications
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety
*IT37, IT38, IT39 available in 2027
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, including installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of residential and commercial systems.
Career Opportunities
- HVAC Technician
- Refrigeration Technician
- HVAC Installer
- Service Technician
- HVAC System Designer
Certifications Available
- NCCER HVAC Level 1
- NCCER HVAC Level 2
- EPA Universal 608 Certification
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
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 offered welding processes
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety
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
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
Certifications Available
- Certified Autodesk Maya
- Industry portfolio using the Unity game engine
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. Choose a track—or complete both—and prepare for a great career with hands-on training and industry certifications!
Program Overview
This program offers two connected tracks so students can build IT skills from the ground up: Network Administration, which focuses on building and managing computer networks, and Cybersecurity, which focuses on protecting those networks from threats. Students can pursue either track or continue through both for a well-rounded IT foundation.
💻 Network Administration Track
Network Administration I: Based on industry-validated skill standards. Topics include operating systems, networking, Windows server administration, and security.
Network Administration II (Honors): Continues network administration skills with a focus on cybersecurity and certification preparation. Topics include networking security, administrator responsibilities, and documentation of work-based experiences.
Potential Credential: CompTIA Network+ — the industry standard for establishing a career in IT and the preferred qualifying credential for technical support and network operations roles.
🔒 Cybersecurity Track
Cybersecurity I: Provides a solid foundation in network security. Students focus on threats, attacks and vulnerabilities, technologies and tools, and architecture and design.
Cybersecurity II (Honors): Prepares students with the skills and knowledge to install, configure, and troubleshoot computer networks, focusing on identity and access management, risk management, and cryptography and PKI.
Potential Credential: CompTIA Security+ — a global certification validating the baseline skills to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career.
Why This Program?
- Launch your passion for technology
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Learn to communicate across different technology platforms
- Build essential teamwork skills
Career Opportunities
- Network Administrator
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- IT Support Technician/Manager
- Systems Administrator
- Solution Architect
- Network Engineer
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 and excellent long-term job security.