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College Launches Accelerated Program to Boost Completion Rates
RALEIGH, N.C. (October 14, 2025) – Wake Tech has launched an accelerated college-to-career program designed to boost completion rates and propel students into high-wage, in-demand STEM careers.
The college hosted a kickoff event at the Southern Wake Campus Tuesday for its first cohort of Boost, the innovative initiative created by the North Carolina Community College System. The program targets high-growth fields, such as engineering, and works to break down barriers students might face in completing their education. Wake Tech is one of 15 community colleges across the state participating in Boost.
At Wake Tech, Boost is specifically designed to support students in the Associate in Science and Associate in Engineering degree programs who are committed to transferring to four-year institutions and pursuing careers in STEM. More than 80 Wake Tech students are currently taking part in Boost. That number is expected to nearly double by next spring.
"We want to thank all of our Boost students," said Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls. "You all are taking advantage of this opportunity and running with it! We see you as leaders and we want to help you keep moving forward as you complete your degree at Wake Tech, transfer to a four-year university and eventually move into a successful STEM career. Thank you for choosing Wake Tech, and thank you for choosing to be part of Boost."
One of those students, 18-year-old Keyera Redding, is the first person in her family to go to college and is very excited about the Boost initiative.
"I am so grateful for the chance to connect to other Boost students," said Redding. "I also really appreciate the extra support I receive from my Boost advisor. Having an extra set of eyes looking out for me will help me reach my goals. I hope to pursue a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry after I graduate from Wake Tech."
Boost is closely integrated with the college's existing Care Team structure, offering students a comprehensive network of specialized resources:
- Dedicated advising: Students receive a dedicated Boost advisor who guides them through their academic journey and prepares them for a successful transfer to a university.
- Specialized activities: Students benefit from activities designed to ensure their success and long-term readiness for STEM careers.
- Financial support: Participants receive a monthly $100 stipend for meeting attendance and grade requirements.
"The Boost program provides Wake Tech the opportunity to replicate a proven student support model, helping students succeed in completing their degrees faster and gaining the skills they need for high-demand careers," said Brian Gann, vice president of Enrollment and Student Services. "It is a vital enhancement to our student support and advising model, advancing the college's strategic plan for economic mobility."
Boost is supported by a historic $35.6 million grant from Arnold Ventures, the largest private investment ever received by the Community College System. It is modeled after the City University of New York's highly successful Accelerated Study in Associate Programs, which has been proven in other states to double graduation rates and significantly reduce the time required to complete a degree.
Students must meet specific eligibility criteria and regular program benchmarks to receive the full benefits of the Boost program.
