Sandhills Community College celebrates opening of new Workforce Trades Building in Hoke County

By Staff Report, posted Oct 9, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com

Sandhills Community College recently announced the opening of its new Workforce Trades Building to support the region's demand for skilled workers and provide hands-on training that can lead to immediate employment and long-term career opportunities.

On Oct. 8, SCC was joined by the Raeford-Hoke Chamber to celebrate the opening of the building with an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Training launched immediately after the event with Small Engine Repair, followed soon by Foundations to Mechanical Systems. Additional programs are planned to support workforce needs in advanced manufacturing and automation.

“Expanding hands-on skilled trades training is an important investment in our students and in the workforce needs of our region. The new space gives Sandhills Community College greater capacity in Hoke County to offer practical training, including small engine repair and electrical, that helps people build valuable skills and prepare for employment. This progress reflects our commitment to creating accessible pathways into in-demand careers while strengthening the talent pipeline for employers and the broader workforce community,” shared Vice-Provost for Instructional Programs Michelle Bauer.

Sandhills Community College is renting this building and has added equipment to support the classes. They plan to open a new trades building on their Pinehurst Campus in 2027-28.

Hoke County residents are encouraged to explore upcoming course offerings at the college’s new Workforce Trades Building, 2550 Aberdeen Road, just west of Raeford.

Beginning Monday, Oct. 12, evening classes will be offered, and on Saturday, Oct. 17, Saturday classes will get underway. The Foundations of Mechanical Systems courses will offer hands-on skills around electrical systems motors, and system operations; mechanical components, power transmission, measurement and tools; installation and maintenance and basic troubleshooting; safe work practices in today’s industrial environment; and lab activities with preparation for advance training in automation and robotics.

The Small Engine Repair course kicked off on Oct. 8 following the ribbon-cutting and open house.

Students who successfully complete the course are guaranteed a job interview with regional employers, including PTT, Dracoe and Unilever, leading to direct pathways to high-demand jobs.

Businesses interested in specific skilled trades training at the Workforce Trades Building may contact Taylor McCaskill, senior director of Workforce Development & Corporate Partnerships at Sandhills Community College, at 910-246-4969.

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