RALEIGH, N.C. (November 5, 2026) – Community, connection and gratitude were at the heart of Wake Tech's Veterans Day Ceremony and Eagle Warrior Employment & Resources Expo on Thursday at the Southern Wake Campus.

The events brought together the Wake Tech community to honor military service, reflect on the sacrifices of those who have served and connect attendees with educational, career and community resources.

North Carolina is home to nearly 700,000 veterans. At Wake Tech, approximately 1,800 students have military connections, whether through their own service or that of a family member.

"Thank you to the staff and faculty at Wake Tech who take the time to help veterans take their next steps," said keynote speaker Jimmie Bellamy, general counsel for the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. "Honoring our veterans doesn't always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it's simply offering a helping hand, opening a door and helping a veteran reach the next chapter in their journey."

For Mia Cooper, a Paralegal Technology student, attending the event was a way to honor her father, who served in the Army for 25 years.

"I felt this is my way to give back and contribute to honoring our veterans," Cooper said. "Wake Tech has done a phenomenal job bringing community organizations together and sharing these resources with all of us."

Following the ceremony, attendees met with employers, service providers and community organizations during the Eagle Warrior Employment & Resources Expo. The event offered access to career opportunities, benefits information and support services designed specifically for veterans and military families.

Liz Phillips, an Army veteran and Wake Tech graduate who served as the ceremony's narrator, said the event provided something equally important: a sense of belonging.

"There are so many veterans and military-connected students here, and sometimes it's hard to meet others who share those experiences," Phillips said. "This brings everyone together while also connecting people with resources and benefits."

The Veterans Day ceremony and expo are part of Wake Tech's ongoing commitment to those who have served and the family members who support them. The college also hosted Military Appreciation Night during the men's basketball game Wednesday, featuring a special pregame recognition ceremony.

Wake Tech is a Military Friendly® Gold Award institution, a designation recognizing the college's efforts to help members of the military community pursue education, training and professional development.