Careers Electric™ is a national workforce initiative designed to expand access to high-quality electrical training and create clear pathways into well-paying, in-demand careers. Supported by a $9.25 million investment from the Siemens Foundation, the program positions North Carolina's community colleges as the primary engine for training students for essential roles in the energy and infrastructure sectors over the next decade.

Wake Tech is leading the way in developing and implementing a statewide Electrification Training Network, a High School Summer Academy and a suite of wraparound student supports. These efforts are designed to increase student enrollment and persistence in pursuing career opportunities in the rapidly evolving field of residential, commercial and industrial electrical system installation and maintenance. As a key partner, Wake Tech's will serve as the primary blueprint for replication across the country, ensuring North Carolina remains the national leader in electrical workforce innovation.

North Carolina Careers Electric™ Training Network

Wake Tech is expanding training capacity and modernizing electrical and energy-related programs around emerging technologies and industry credentials. The college also is partnering with 10 other institutions in the North Carolina Community College System to strengthen multiple entry points into the workforce — from high school pathways and youth apprenticeships to community college credentials and advanced electrical training.

• Cape Fear Community College
• Catawba Valley Community College
• Central Piedmont Community College
• Durham Technical Community College
• Forsyth Technical Community College
• Gaston Community College
• Nash Community College
• Pitt Community College
• Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
• Wilkes Community College

Other partners in the initiative include the North Carolina Business Committee for Education, the North Carolina Community College Foundation, the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program, the Families and Workers Fund and other industry employers across North Carolina.