BCC lands $600K grant to launch heavy equipment program

BOLIVIA, N.C. (WECT) - Brunswick Community College (BCC) will launch a Heavy Equipment Operator Training Program in January 2027 fueled by a $600,000 state grant.

In partnership with Southeastern Community College, the program will prepare students for high-demand careers in construction and infrastructure.

BCC said the new program will provide hands-on training and industry knowledge for careers in heavy equipment operation, site construction and related fields.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for our students,” said Dr. Gene Smith, President of Brunswick Community College. “Heavy equipment operators play an essential role in construction and infrastructure development. This program will give students the hands-on training they need to enter a high-demand field and build rewarding careers close to home. We are grateful to the North Carolina Community College System for this investment and to Southeastern Community College for partnering with us to make the most of this opportunity for our region.”

BCC said additional information, including enrollment details, will be announced as the January 2027 launch approaches.

The funding was awarded through the North Carolina Community College System’s 2026 High-Cost Workforce Start-Up Grant initiative. According to BCC, the regional partnership is one of only two recommended for funding statewide.

For more information about BCC and other workforce and industry training programs, click here or contact BCC OneStop Student Services at (910) 755-7320 or onestop@brunswickcc.edu.