If you enjoy a bit of wordplay, you might say Brian Lucas is truly ‘welded’ to Central Piedmont. From student to instructor, program chair, and now Associate Dean of Skilled Trades, Brian’s career is a testament to his deep connection with the college.

🔨 A Central Piedmont Success Story

Brian graduated from the Welding Technology program in 2006 and returned to Central Piedmont as an instructor. Over the years, he rose to leadership roles, always carrying his passion for improving students’ lives.

“I am in every sense of the word a product of Central Piedmont,” Brian says. “Central Piedmont is my family. This has been the best job I have ever had.”

 

🌟 Inspiring Student Success

Brian’s dedication shines through the stories he shares:

• A first-generation immigrant who gained citizenship during the program, advanced to become a lead salesman for a major multinational company, and later returned as a Central Piedmont instructor. 🌎
• A struggling student who turned his life around after Brian took the time to create a plan with him. That student has since graduated and now works successfully in the industry. 🚀

“I love to see the success we can provide to our students,” Brian says. “That’s why I do what I do.”

 

🛠️ Why Choose Central Piedmont?

Brian’s message to anyone seeking their next career step is simple:

“This is the place to be. Central Piedmont will set you on a pathway to success using practical applications. There is no fluff here. Everything we do is designed to maximize knowledge and your skills in your area of study.”

With passionate leaders like Brian Lucas, Central Piedmont continues to shape futures and open doors to opportunity. ✨

Plan ahead for your bookstore needs during Thanksgiving week! Here’s the schedule for the Central Piedmont Campus Bookstores:

🕘 Hours of Operation

• Mon., Nov. 25 & Tue., Nov. 26:
  • Open 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at Cato, Central, and Levine Campuses
• Wed., Nov. 27:
  • Open 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. at Central Campus ONLY
• Thu., Nov. 28 & Fri., Nov. 29:
  • All Bookstores Closed for the Thanksgiving holiday 🦃

Enjoy the holiday break, and don’t forget to stock up on what you need before the closures! 🎉

📍 Harris Campus – Catalyst is closed from Nov. 18 through Jan 5.

📍 Central, Cato, Harper, Merancas & Levine Campuses – Catalyst will be closed from Dec. 11. through Jan. 5.

• These locations will operate on a modified 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. schedule from Dec. 2 through Dec. 10.

📍 Central & Levine Campuses – Beach & Borough will be closed from Dec. 11. through Jan. 5.

• These locations will operate on a modified 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. schedule from Dec. 2 through Dec. 10.

📍 Central Campus – Hen & Steer will be closed from Dec. 11. through Jan. 5.

• This location will operate on the following modified schedule from Dec. 2 through Dec. 10:
  • Hen & Steer Breakfast: 8:30-10 a.m.
  • Hen & Steer Gastro Grill & Cosmos: 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

All locations will be closed starting Dec. 11 and will reopen on Jan. 6 with regular hours.

Big news for Central Piedmont students and employees! Thanks to a $575,000 congressionally directed award, the college is opening a state-of-the-art Campus Wellness Center on Central Campus this January. 🎉

💚 What is the Campus Wellness Center?

This new center is a holistic resource hub designed to support your mental, physical, and overall well-being. It’s a safe, confidential space where students and employees can:

• Manage stress and discuss personal concerns
• Access referrals to college and community services
• Find a wide range of resources in one convenient location

🏢 Access for All Campuses

The Wellness Center will be based on Central Campus, but students from all campuses will be able to access its services. Stay tuned for:

• Operating hours ⏰
• Contact information 📞

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Campus Wellness Center, where your well-being is our top priority! 🌟✨

The Baking and Pastry Program wants to express its sincerest gratitude for the community’s patronage during the opening week of The Rustic Whisk Bakery & Bistro.

We’re excited to share what’s new at The Rustic Whisk for week two. Each week, you’ll find new items inspired by the season that we have creatively crafted. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, there’s always something new to discover.

We are still taking online orders for our Thanksgiving sale until Nov. 20, and our Holiday Sale until Nov. 26.

• Location: Harris Campus, Student Life Center
• Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday-Thursday

Thank you for your continued support. If you haven’t yet, please follow us on our social media pages @TheRusticWhiskCLT. Your visits help us refine our craft, and we’re thrilled to share our creations with you. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Jahmicah Miller is setting an inspiring example as she works toward becoming the youngest licensed female electrician in North Carolina! Here’s how her journey unfolded at Central Piedmont and the experiences that fueled her success. 💪

🚀 Starting Strong with ROC Program

Jahmicah took advantage of the Rebuilding Opportunities in Construction (ROC) program, a Central Piedmont Career & College Promise pathway focused on construction technologies. Her hard work paid off:

• Graduated from Philip O. Berry High School and completed the ROC program in May 2021
• Earned 49 college credits—for free!—while gaining hands-on experience

“The knowledge I gained through the ROC program gave me the confidence I needed to serve as an apprentice for a Charlotte area electrical contractor after high school graduation,” Jahmicah shared.

🎓 Building Her Career at Central Piedmont

After finishing a company apprenticeship and earning two electrical technology certificates in 2021, Jahmicah decided to return to Central Piedmont:

• Culbertson Endowed Scholarship helped her complete an associate degree in electrical system technology
• Graduated in spring 2023 and quickly advanced in her career as an Electrical Mechanic
• Returned in spring 2024 as an instructor for the ROC program!

“This college has made my goals its goals. I’m honored to be a part of this community,” Jahmicah said.

❤️ Prioritizing Family and Giving Back

When her mother faced health challenges, Jahmicah put her plans on hold to prioritize family and community:

• Volunteered over 30 hours a month on local disaster relief and faith-based electrical projects across North Carolina
• Built new trade skills, including electrical estimating and installation

“Central Piedmont has never questioned my ambition but has always asked how they can support me,” she reflected.

🎯 What’s Next?

Jahmicah plans to take her BEEC exam in 2025 and is determined to make history as North Carolina’s youngest licensed female electrician. Her journey shows how determination, skill-building, and a supportive community like Central Piedmont can make anything possible! 🚀💡

Central Piedmont is thrilled to announce the first event of the 2024-25 Parr Arts and Humanities Series — a captivating performance by the West Virginia Dance Company at the Parr Center Theater! Experience the power of dance that combines stunning light design, visual art, and costumes to create a moving kaleidoscope of color and storytelling.

🌟 Performance Schedule:

• First Show: Thurs., Nov. 14 at 2 p.m.
• Second Show: Fri., Nov. 15 at 7 p.m.
• Location: Parr Center Theater, Central Campus
• Admission: Free, but registration is required to reserve your spot!

The West Virginia Dance Company performs for tens of thousands annually, delivering thought-provoking art that entertains and inspires. The Parr Arts & Humanities Series brings esteemed artists and authors to Central Piedmont, enriching the campus and the Charlotte community with world-class cultural events.

America’s darkest family is back, and things are getting complicated when Wednesday Addams falls for a sweet young man from a “normal” family! 💕😱 With Gomez keeping secrets from Morticia, this dinner party is sure to bring chaos! 🍽️👻

📍 Location: Central Campus, Overcash Center, Halton Theater
🎟️ Tickets: Available for purchase now!

Showtimes:

• Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m.
• Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m.
• Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m.
• Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m.

Specials:

• 🎫 BOGO adult tickets for Thursday’s show with code 2 SNAPS
• 🎓 Central Piedmont students get in FREE at the door with current student ID
• 🎟️ Employees get up to two $10 tickets with code CPCCEMPLOYEE

Join us for an inspiring field trip to the Randolph Mint Museum!

• Date: Wed., Nov. 20
• Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• What to expect: Dive into the world of ceramics and discover the cultural heritage behind the Mint’s extensive collection. Explore various clay types and techniques used by artists to create pottery with unique forms and functions.

To secure a spot, students should complete the registration form by Nov. 13, selecting the “museum field trip” option on the form. A confirmation email will follow.

Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the museum.

🌍 Study Abroad Summer 2025

The Center for Global Engagement is pleased to announce Central Piedmont’s Summer 2025 study abroad and globally focused-domestic travel programs. Dates, specific program information, and applications for these programs are on the Study Abroad page of the Center for Global Engagement website.  All applications for 2025 are open with a deadline of Dec. 10, 2024. 

Programs are open to students 18 and older, employees, and community members. Some scholarships are available for students. Please email the Center for Global Engagement with questions or call 704-330-6167.

Summer 2025  

Florence, Italy: “Music, History, and Cultural Immersion” (Music Appreciation or CCE) –  May 21, 2025 – June 3, 2025

Spend two weeks immersing yourself in the history, music, and culture of Florence, Italy. Participants will dive into the local scene exploring neighborhoods and markets, such as Mercato Sant’Ambrogio. This special program will include visits to renowned sites like The Uffizi, the Duomo, the Palazzo Pitti, and Boboli Gardens, as well as day trips to destinations like San Gimignano and engaging talks by local experts about Italian music, culture, and history.

Subsequent days offer enriching experiences such as a walking tour of Renaissance Florence, visits to iconic landmarks like Santa Croce and the Casa di Dante, and reserved visits to cultural treasures like the Galleria dell’Accademia and the San Marco convent. Students will also have free exploration time, with the option to attend a concert at the Lyceum Club. With unforgettable experiences at every turn, this program to Florence promises to enrich your understanding of Italian culture, music, and history.

Japan: “Japanese Warlords in Modern Media” (Humanities 120 or CCE) – June 19, 2025 – June 30, 2025

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Japan, where ancient traditions meet modern marvels. Immerse yourself in the culture of Kyoto and its historic temples. Engage in authentic experiences such as savoring Shojin Ryori, a traditional Buddhist meal, and navigating the lively streets of Osaka’s Dotonbori district.

Uncover Japan’s history with visits to sites like Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei, Todai-ji in Nara, and the Sekigahara Battlegrounds. Explore the fusion of science and tradition at venues like Miraikan, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, and the quaint neighborhoods of Yanaka and Nezu in Tokyo. Customize your adventure with free exploration days, whether immersing yourself in cutting-edge technology at TEPIA or indulging your interests at the Square Enix Cafe in Akihabara.

United Kingdom & Romania: “Dracula: History & Literature in the footsteps of Bram Stoker” (Humanities – Myth & Human Culture and World Civilizations II or CCE) 
May 26, 2025 – June 6, 2025 

Explore the origins of Dracula and immerse yourself in the haunting world of Bram Stoker’s iconic novel with a unique study abroad experience led by Dacre Stoker, great-grandnephew of the legendary author himself.  Dive into the folklore of vampires in Romanian culture, uncovering historic inspirations for Stoker’s novel.

Visit key sites, such as Whitby, Sibiu, and Bran, where you will walk in the footsteps of the novel’s characters and explore the rich history behind the legends. From scenic hikes and historic tours to indulging in local cuisine and traditions, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of England and Romania.

🤝 Join Us for a World Affairs Council Speaker Series Luncheon

The Center for Global Engagement and the Office of Mentoring and Coaching are excited to announce a partnership offering Central Piedmont students the opportunity to attend World Affairs Council Speaker Series Luncheons. There is one more luncheon coming up on Dec. 4. 

CEO Series with Leon Topalian, Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer of NUCOR. For more information, click here. 

There are a limited number of free tickets available for these luncheons, and registration through the Center for Global Engagement is required. Registration for the months of November and December is now open! For more details about the WACC luncheon opportunities and requirements, and to register, please use the form linked HERE.

For any questions, feel free to reach out via email at global.learning@cpcc.edu.

The Baking and Pastry Arts Department is thrilled to announce the opening of The Rustic Whisk — our student-run bakery and bistro, offering a cozy atmosphere filled with handcrafted artisan treats!

🍞 Opening Details:

• Date: Mon., Nov. 11
• Location: Harris Campus, Student Life Center
• Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday-Thursday
• What to Expect: Enjoy a selection of freshly baked breads, pastries, savory items, and seasonal delights, all crafted by our talented students.

Thanksgiving Bake Sale Menu is Now Live for pre-orders!

We Offer a variety of seasonal pies & artisan breads perfect for your holiday gathering! Last day to place online pre-orders is Wednesday, November 20.

Available for PICK UP ONLY

• Date: November 27
• Location: Harris Campus, Student Life Center
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Our mission is to foster student growth and creativity through this capstone project, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Come support our students and enjoy a delicious treat from The Rustic Whisk! 🥐🌿