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SANFORD, N.C. — �ڰ������� has secured $2.5 million from the Golden LEAF Foundation to help fund critical renovations and cutting-edge equipment at its E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center. Robotics, welding, and industrial skills labs are among the features planned as part of the next phase of construction.

“Golden LEAF is proud to support �ڰ�������’s strategy for a regional center focused on manufacturing and biotechnology training,” said Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton. “This project will enhance the talent pipeline by strengthening hands-on instruction, increasing academic degrees earned, and offering more nationally recognized certifications in response to strong employer demand across the area.”

This funding would not have been possible without the support of all three counties in �ڰ�������’s service area. Each chose to submit the Moore Center project to Golden LEAF for consideration through the Foundation’s Community-Based Grants Initiative, affirming the regional initiative as a top priority. 

"The Moore Center strengthens our ability to connect the appropriately skilled talent with our current and future employers throughout our region, and this grant award is an excellent example of how our three counties work together to support our region," said �ڰ������� President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman. 

She noted that this type of teamwork helps put North Carolina at the top of national workforce rankings.

“The college appreciates each of our three counties and their support, as well as Golden LEAF's recognition of their partnership," she said. 

Margaret Roberton, �ڰ�������’s Vice President for Workforce Development and Chief of Staff, said the addition of the $2.5 million completes the needed funding for the first phase of major renovations for the main building, including technology for training.

The Golden LEAF funding support is key, she said, because it will allow �ڰ������� to ensure it has the up-to-date equipment needed to do the types of training that industry demands.

Harnett County Manager Brent Trout called �ڰ������� being selected for the Golden LEAF funding a "significant win” for the community.

“This investment will equip our residents and community with the necessary skills to succeed and will strengthen our local workforce,” he said. 

Chatham County Manager Bryan Thompson said the development of the Moore Center — along with the critical training equipment funded by Golden LEAF— will make it possible to prepare a highly skilled workforce ready to meet the growing demands of advanced manufacturing and biotechnology industries.

“By aligning education and training with the real-world needs of employers, we are creating meaningful career pathways for our residents while strengthening our local economy,” he noted.

The college anticipates beginning the first phase of major renovations on the main building at the Moore Center this summer. Less intensive renovations to address immediate needs are ongoing.

�ڰ������� has previously renovated other parts of the facility and is in the process of renovating its biotechnology building, which is anticipated to be completed by the end of June. �ڰ������� is currently conducting a capital campaign seeking donations to help fund later phases of the Moore Center renovations.

“The training and programming that will be offered in the facility will assist our area in retaining existing industries and recruiting new industries,” said Lee County Manager Lisa Minter. “Both of which are necessary to support the growth in our communities.”

For more information about �ڰ�������’s plans visit the Moore Center website.