By Holly Desrosier / Craven CC
Photo Caption: Ricky Meadows, executive director of career programs, leads a tour of the machining lab during a recent orientation session for students planning to attend Craven CC during the fall semester.
Craven Community College’s (Craven CC) fall registration is currently underway through Aug. 16 for new and returning students. The introduction of two new programs, Mechatronics Technology and Industrial Systems Technology, will enhance this semester’s curriculum selection.
Fall is by far the preferred semester for both current and new students to apply or re-enroll at Craven CC. The fall 2017 semester had 6.5 percent more students enrolled as compared to spring 2018, and 52.4 percent more than summer 2018.
Fall enrollment has also increased: The number of students enrolled rose from 2,820 in fall 2016 to 2,991 in fall 2017 — a 6.1 percent increase.
“Fall is the most popular time of the year for students because of recent high school graduates and the start of our competitive health programs,” said Zomar Peter, Craven CC dean of enrollment management. “It also mirrors the start of the university semester, and non-traditional students mirror their school age children’s schedule.”
Craven CC strives to help students achieve their educational, personal and career goals by offering hundreds of certificates, diplomas and degree programs. From college transfer and health careers to technical training and continuing education, the college has a program to fit everyone’s educational aspirations.
Whether students are working toward an associate degree or already enrolled at a four-year university and looking to earn a few extra credits, Craven CC has a convenient and affordable selection of seated and online classes that can be finished in just eight or 10 weeks.
As a result of a $200,000 Duke Energy grant presented to the college June 26, funds are going toward a new Craven County Apprentice Program (CCAP) that connects students with hands-on training and career development opportunities, such as the ones offered through the new Mechatronics and Industrial Systems Technology programs.
Mechatronics Technology is a multidisciplinary field of science that includes a combination of electronic engineering, mechanical engineering and computer science. The curriculum will prepare students to use basic engineering principles and technical skills in developing and testing automated, servomechanical and other electromechanical systems. It includes instruction on prototype testing, manufacturing and operational testing, systems analysis and maintenance procedures.
Other coursework will include computer-aided drafting and design, applied mechanics, materials engineering, quality control, manufacturing methods and processes, oral and written communications, mathematics and physics. Upon completion of the Mechatronics Technology program, students will be eligible to enter the workforce in various positions such as technical service providers, industrial technology managers and industrial, maintenance, engineering or process improvement technicians.
The Industrial Systems Technology program will prepare students to service, maintain, repair and install equipment for a wide range of industries. Instruction will include theory and skills training needed for inspecting, testing, troubleshooting and diagnosing industrial equipment and physical facilities.
Industrial Systems Technology students will also learn technical skills in blueprint reading, electricity, hydraulics/pneumatics, machining, welding and various maintenance procedures. Advanced coursework may be offered. Upon completion of the program, graduates will have the skills to seek a career as an electrician, industrial technician or maintenance technician.
These programs offer a combination of everything needed to succeed in the mechatronics and industrial systems technology fields,” said Ricky Meadows, executive director of career programs. “Once students complete a program, they are able to enter the job market with confidence.”
Financial aid and scholarships are available for students who qualify. Those interested are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
“Students should know that now is the time to complete the admission application, financial aid/scholarship, advising and registration processes,” said Peter. “Most importantly, our trained Student Services staff can assist students through every process.”
Students can register at the New Bern or Havelock campus Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Current students can go online and use WebAdvisor to view the current class listing and register quickly and easily.
For more information on fall registration, contact the New Bern campus at 252-638-7200, the Havelock campus at 252-444-6005 or visit www.cravencc.edu.
