Golden LEAF grants LCC $380,000 for new aerospace training program

Lenoir Community College will soon have additional funds to help train workers for the aerospace industry thanks to a Golden LEAF grant.

The Golden LEAF Foundation Board of Directors awarded $4.2 million to community colleges statewide this month. The funds will be used to help train workers through Golden LEAF’s Opportunities for Work in Aerospace Manufacturing Initiative.

“The manufacturing and repair of composite aerostructures require additional training needs to ensure the stringent quality standards needed by the aerostructure industry are being met,” LCC President Brantley Briley said. “The cost associated with implementing these programs can be cost prohibitive for community colleges, and aerospace programs are among the most expensive.”

Spirit AeroSystems continued this month to develop its manufacturing site at the Global TransPark in Kinston. The company plans to begin manufacturing operations at the park in late 2010.

“Without our partnership with the Golden LEAF Foundation, it would be extremely difficult to meet the needs of companies such as Spirit AeroSystems,” Briley said.

LCC will receive $380,000 from Golden LEAF to develop its Aerostructure Manufacturing and Repair Technology Program. The funds will be used to purchase software, simulation equipment and instructional supplies.

The grant will be also used to fund a part-time instructional position and to operate a mobile machining lab.

“North Carolina is gaining momentum in becoming a national leader in aerospace and aviation,” N.C. Community College System President Scott Ralls said. “The grants from our partners at Golden LEAF mark a real step forward in reaching that goal and in providing the resources our selected colleges need to continue to create a high-quality aerospace workforce.”

Chris Lavender can be reached at 252-559-1078 or clavender@freedomenc.com.