Old North News

Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order to establish a Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships. The council will be chaired by Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley, State Senator Eddie Settle, and NC Community Colleges President Dr. Jeffrey Cox. Governor Stein made the announcement during a visit to Forsyth Tech Community College, where he also toured the Transportation Technology Center.

“Our state’s greatest asset is our people, and to invest in our future, we must invest in our people. No state will outwork North Carolina when it comes to developing our workforce,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am proud to sign this executive order and launch this council to keep delivering on the promise of North Carolina – that where you come from should never limit how far you can go.”

Lee Lilley, Secretary of the NC Department of Commerce, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative: “North Carolina’s workforce is the backbone of our thriving business climate. I look forward to working together to identify and amplify strategies that help North Carolina’s workers and businesses continue to thrive.”

Senator Eddie Settle highlighted the importance of skilled workers for local economies: “There is a lot of good work being done around North Carolina’s main streets and towns, and they need skilled workers to reap the benefits of our growing economy. I am proud to co-chair this council so that we can find ways to strengthen North Carolina’s workforce and attract more employers to every corner of our state.”

Dr. Jeffrey Cox emphasized collaboration with various stakeholders: "I am proud to co-chair this Council to work alongside Governor Stein's team, the NC General Assembly and businesses and industries across the state to ensure our NC Community College System continues to expand apprenticeship and other workforce credential programs."

Governor Stein has been active in promoting workforce development across North Carolina. He recently visited Wake Tech Community College during Career and Technical Education Month in February. In January, he launched the Fostering Learning through Education, Employment, and Trades (FLEET) Program with Surry-Yadkin Works and Altec Industries. His latest budget proposal includes $256 million for workforce development initiatives.