Wilkesboro, NC – April is officially Community College Month a time to shine a spotlight on the life-changing role community colleges play in building strong communities, empowering individuals, and fueling local economies. At Wilkes Community College, we believe choosing a community college is more than just a smart move, it’s the best decision you can make for your future.
Across the nation, the #CCMonth campaign is focused on increasing awareness and understanding of the value community colleges provide both locally and nationally. At WCC, we’re proud to be leading that charge by offering high-quality, affordable, and accessible education that meets the needs of today’s learners and tomorrow’s workforce.
“Our mission at WCC is to provide you with lifelong education, workforce development, and community engagement opportunities to ensure you have the knowledge and skills to transform your life and enrich our communities. As the economic engine in Wilkes, Ashe, and Alleghany counties, we stand ready to serve you. Stop by Wilkes Community College today and get started on your educational journey. You will soon see why it will be the #BestDecisionEver,” stated Dr. Mike Rodgers, WCC President.
Real Stories. Real Impact
Hunter Wayne has always been the kind of person who tinkered with things. As a child, his love for video games morphed into a fascination with the inner workings of gaming consoles. He’d take them apart, trying to fix them when they broke, and sometimes even managed to succeed. This curiosity, coupled with his natural talent, laid the groundwork for what would become his passion and career: Information Technology (IT).
Growing up in Wilkes County, Hunter was no stranger to Wilkes Community College. Living just a stone’s throw away, he found himself drawn to the campus. The Career and College Promise Program along with the Education Promise Scholarship offered full college funding, including fees, while he was in high school and later, as he attended WCC as a college student. It meant he could pursue his dreams without financial worry.
Hunter’s journey into IT began during his high school years at West Wilkes High School. Unsure of what he wanted to do after graduation, he decided to get a head start by taking classes at WCC during his junior and senior years. This strategic move shortened his educational timeline, giving him a head start on certifications and allowing him to explore his interests without delay.
His time at WCC wasn’t just about coursework; it was also about hands-on experience. An internship at Wilkes Communications’ IT department introduced him to Mike Wingler, VP of Information Technology and Operations/CIO, who was a pivotal figure in his journey. Hunter landed an interview with Wingler, which led to an internship opportunity at WCC, where Hunter spent six months honing his skills before being hired part-time.
With his feet firmly planted in the IT world, Hunter thrived. The flexibility of the work, the constant learning, and above all, the opportunity to help others, fueled his passion. As graduation approached, he felt confident in his abilities, knowing that his education and experiences had prepared him well for the industry.
Looking to the future, Hunter is now working for Samaritan’s Purse, where he continues his journey in IT services. When asked what advice he would give to students wanting to follow this pathway, Hunter emphasized the importance of continuous learning, effective time management, and communication skills a reminder that success in IT goes beyond the technical skillset.
At just 20 years old, Hunter Wayne graduated with three associate degrees in Network Management, Computer Programming, and System Security. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and seizing opportunities when they arise.
Wilkes Community College and The WCC Foundation are honored to have played a part in Hunter’s educational journey. We congratulate Hunter and hope that more students follow the path of success through the Career and College Promise program, which offers free access to WCC classes to high school students through funding from the state of North Carolina and the WCC Foundation. Additionally, the Education Promise Scholarship ensures the coverage of all tuition and fees for high school students during their first two years of college at WCC, paid for by the WCC Foundation. Hunter Wayne’s journey from childhood curiosity to IT excellence exemplifies the opportunities available through these programs, and we are proud to support students like Hunter in achieving their dreams.
Why Community Colleges Matter—Now More Than Ever
Community colleges like Wilkes Community College are at the heart of economic mobility and community growth. We serve a diverse population of students—from recent high school graduates to working adults—and we do so with programs designed to be flexible, affordable, and directly aligned with local industry needs. With in-demand career training, transfer pathways, and personal support services, WCC helps students succeed on their own terms.
Changing the Narrative: Reducing Stigma, Building Pride
One of the goals of #CCMonth is to reduce outdated stigmas about community colleges. The truth is: that students leave WCC equipped with top-tier skills, little to no debt, and a clear path forward whether that means entering the workforce or transferring to a university. Our alumni go on to achieve big things, and it all started with one smart move.
Support Matters
Public investment and community support for institutions like WCC are more important than ever. As we celebrate Community College Month, we invite our community members, leaders, and partners to stand with us in supporting accessible, affordable education for all.
Get Involved
Help spread the word by using #CCMonth and sharing your WCC story on social media. If WCC has made a difference in your life or in the life of someone you love, let others know why it was the best decision.
To learn more about programs, partnerships, and how WCC is making a difference every day, visit www.wilkescc.edu.
Wilkes Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System, is a public, two-year, open-door institution serving the people of Wilkes, Ashe, and Alleghany counties and beyond. Established in 1965, WCC has a proud history of meeting the educational, cultural, and workforce needs of our community. As we look to the future, Wilkes Community College provides programs, resources, and services that create quality educational, economic development, and cultural opportunities. WCC aspires to be an effective, learner-centered institution and a dynamic learning organization, preparing students for success in a changing world.
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