NDE program builds legacy of safety, skill, and community impact

three students from NDE program

The Nondestructive Examination (NDE) program at Central Piedmont Community College is more than workforce training — it’s a catalyst for change. Graduates help ensure the safety of critical infrastructure, from aircraft and bridges to power plants and naval projects. 

Why it matters: 
The program empowers students to enter high-demand careers while strengthening families and communities through skilled trades. 

Student spotlight: 
Muriel, Aumani, and Brandon have built a family legacy through the NDE program. 

  • Their work spans naval projects, energy systems, and safety advocacy 
  • Brandon is set to graduate in December, continuing the family’s commitment to technical excellence and community impact 
  • Their story reflects how skilled trades can transform lives and create lasting change 

By the numbers: 

  • Over 90% of NDE graduates secure jobs shortly after completing the program 
  • Starting salaries range from $40,000 to over $100,000 

The big picture: 
The NDE program is driving economic opportunity and community well-being, preparing students to lead in industries that keep our world safe. 

Learn more: 
Explore how to get involved with the NDE program 

 

Open House, The Central Piedmont Experience

 

central piedmont experience post cardCentral Piedmont Community College will host its Fall Open House on Sat., Nov. 8 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Central Campus. 

Students and their families are invited to experience the Central Piedmont community and learn more about academic programs, student services, campus life, and the faculty and staff who make it all happen. 

What to expect: 

  • Pre-registration is strongly encouraged, but registration will also be available on-site 
  • Activities will span across Central Campus with the Parr Center serving as the main hub  
  • Parking is available in Parking Deck 4 and Parking Lots 5, 6, and 7. 

Highlights include: 

  • Guided campus tours led by Student Ambassadors  
  • 20+ booth-style tables featuring programs and services 
  • Info sessions on admissions, financial aid, and scholarships 
  • Refreshments, giveaways, and games 

National Transfer Student Week: Your path to a four-year degree starts here

people talking at transfer fair

Oct. 20–24 | Multiple campuses and virtual 

Central Piedmont Community College is celebrating National Transfer Student Week with events designed to help students explore transfer options, connect with advisors, and learn how to save on a four-year degree. 

What’s happening: 

  • National Transfer Student Week Kick-Off 
    Mon., Oct. 20 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center Quad
    Start the week with games, prizes, and fun as we launch the celebration. 
  • College Transfer Fair 
    Tue., Oct. 21 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor Lobby
    Meet representatives from over 30 colleges and universities across North Carolina. Learn about transfer partnerships, admissions, student engagement, and more. 
  • Guaranteed Admissions Virtual Sessions 
    Wed., Oct. 22 | 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. | Virtual
    Discover how to transfer to one of 15 four-year institutions in North and South Carolina through guaranteed admission programs. Learn how to save thousands on your degree. 
  • Transfer Tables 
    Thu., Oct. 23 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | All campuses
    Drop in to speak with academic advisors about your degree plan, campus resources, and transfer questions. 
  • College Spirit Day 
    Fri., Oct. 24 | All day | All campuses
    Show your school pride—wear your favorite college gear. 

Graduating this fall? It’s time to apply

Three students dressed in caps and gowns at Commencement Ceremony.

Students in their final semester of a degree or diploma program at Central Piedmont Community College should submit their graduation application now. 

To be included in the Dec. printed program, students must apply and be found eligible by Fri., Oct. 10, 2025. 

How to apply: 

  • Log in to your MyCollege account 
  • Go to the Graduation Overview tab 
  • Select your program and term 
  • Click Submit 

Need help? Contact Graduation Services: 

Congratulations to all soon-to-be graduates! 

 

🌿 Fall plant sale coming to Cato Campus

people looking at plants

Students and local plant lovers can stock up on fall greenery during Central Piedmont’s annual plant sale, hosted by the Horticulture program. 

When: 

  • Fri., Sept. 26: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. 
  • Sat., Sept. 27: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

Where: 
Cato Campus – Horticulture Building
3645 E. W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28215 

Payment options: 

  • Cash 
  • Credit card 
  • Personal checks 

Why it matters: 
The sale features student-grown plants and supports hands-on learning in the Horticulture program. Come early for the best selection!  

🎨 Calling all artists: Exhibit your work at Central Piedmont

student painting

What’s happening: 
The Central Piedmont art galleries are now accepting submissions for upcoming exhibitions. 

Why it matters: 
This is a chance for emerging and established artists to showcase their work in a professional gallery setting on campus. 

Who can apply: 
Open to all artists — students, faculty, staff, and the wider community. 

Details: 

  • 📍 Location: Overcash Center, Central Campus 
  • 📅 Deadline to submit: Fri., Sept. 27 
  • 🖼️ Accepted work: All mediums welcome — painting, sculpture, digital, and more

The big picture: 
Selected artists will have the opportunity to be featured in a solo or group exhibition during the 2025–26 gallery season. Apply here!

🎨 Four New Art Exhibitions Open Across Central Piedmont Campuses

Painting Sonoma Sunset, 16x20 encaustic on panel - featured in Terri Yacovelli Exhibition on Levine Campus

Central Piedmont is showcasing a fresh wave of creativity this fall, with four unique exhibitions now open to the campus community. From thought-provoking history to Charlotte-inspired sketches, there’s something for everyone to explore. 

What’s new: 

Levine CampusTerri Yacovelli Exhibition 

  • A series of encaustic paintings that reimagine landscapes as fluid, internal spaces shaped by memory, perception, and emotion. 
  • Expect abstraction, layered textures, and bold color that invite contemplation. 

Central Campus, Dove Gallery: “The Unscene South” by Charles Eady 

  • A powerful exploration of Black life in the Antebellum South. 
  • Challenges traditional narratives and offers fresh perspectives on history. 

Central Campus, North Classroom: “A Love Letter from Charlotte” by Mike Daikubara 

  • Features 60 on-location sketches capturing Charlotte’s landmarks, hidden corners, and evolving cityscape. 
  • Daikubara, an artist and educator, has been sketching daily since 2000. 

Levine Campus – New 3D Art Exhibition Open 

  • A collaborative 3D art exhibition, featuring work from Jackie Radford and Patricia Raible, exploring the book form as artistic expression. 
  • Investigates how structure influences content and vice versa, blending words, visuals, and materials. 

Why it matters: ️ These exhibitions highlight both local talent and broader cultural narratives, giving students, faculty, and the community a chance to engage with art that sparks reflection, dialogue, and inspiration. 

Be sure to stop by the galleries this semester and experience the creativity happening right here on campus. 

📅 Need Back-to-School Help? We’ve Got You!

students outside at fair

On-Campus Support Available Sat., Aug. 16 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Navigators, Advisors & ITS will be on all campuses to assist you

💰 Financial Aid Help Available at:

  • Central Campus
  • Cato Campus
  • Harper Campus
  • Levine Campus
  • Merancas Campus

💳 Cashiering Services Available at:

  • Central Campus
  • Cato Campus
  • Levine Campus

Pop-up information tables will be set up at all six campuses during the first few days of fall classes. Look for employees wearing name tag and “Ask Me” buttons if you need help finding your classes or answering general questions.

Information Tables will be available on Monday and Tuesday, August 18-19, from 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., and on Wednesday, August 20, from 5-6 p.m.

Navigators are at Welcome Centers year-round, and are available to help.


💻 Tech Troubles? ITS Has You Covered

The ITS Service Desk is here to help with:

  • 🔐 Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • 📧 Email, MyCollege, and Brightspace access

🧰 Get Help:

  • Submit a request, chat live, or find how-to guides via the client portal
  • Call: 704.330.5000 (note: high call volume = slower help)

📍 In-person ITS Help:

Central Campus – 2nd Floor, Parr Center

Other campuses – Temporary support tables open Thu., Aug. 14 – Fri., Aug. 22, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (after 1 p.m. on Wed., Aug. 13)

  • Levine Campus – Levine I Lobby
  • Cato Campus – Cato I Lobby
  • Merancas Campus – Claytor Lobby
  • Harris Campus – Harris I Lobby
  • Harper Campus – Harper IV, 2nd Floor Lobby

🖊️ Need Help Registering for Classes?

You’re not alone! Registration help is available in person and online from Mon., Aug. 4 – Tue., Aug. 19.

💡 Pro tip: Join the queue ahead of time — click here to join ✔️

🍴 Taste the World with Central Piedmont’s Line Cooking Class

three people in a food truck

Central Piedmont’s culinary students are serving up international dishes during the Line Cooking Class (a.k.a. the Food Truck Class) — and you’re invited to sample the goods for free!

👨‍🍳 Led by: Instructor A. Cooper
📍 Location: In front of the North Classroom Building, Central Campus
🕠 Time: 5:30–6:30 p.m. (or until samples run out!)

📅 Sample Days:

  • Tue., Aug. 12 & Thu., Aug. 14
  • Tue., Aug. 19 & Thu., Aug. 21
  • Tue., Aug. 26 & Thu., Aug. 28
  • Wed., Sept. 3

🍳 What to Expect:

  • A rotating menu inspired by global cuisines
  • Dishes from breakfast to dinner
  • Student-made, chef-approved samples
  • Real-time cooking & service experience

💡 Why It Matters:
Your participation gives culinary students hands-on experience in prepping, cooking to order, and managing food service — from prep to plate.

🥄 Come hungry, leave inspired — and support your fellow Central Piedmont students one bite at a time!

🌸 Get Ready for Spring Fest 2025 – Fun, Food & Festivities at Every Campus! 🎉

Students eating popscicles

It’s that time of year—Spring Fest is back, and it’s happening across all campuses! Come out and enjoy free food, games, music, giveaways, and more as we celebrate the season and student life at Central Piedmont! 💚

📍 Spring Fest Schedule:

🗓 April 15Merancas & Cato Campuses
🗓 April 16Harper & Levine Campuses
🗓 April 17Central & Harris Campuses

🎈Each campus will bring its own flavor to the fun—don’t miss the chance to connect with classmates, relax, and enjoy the vibes!

🌼 Spring into Wellness at Counseling on the Green

Therapy Dog

Looking for a mid-semester reset? Join Counseling Services for Counseling on the Green, a fun and relaxing wellness event designed to help you de-stress and recharge! 🌿✨

🗓 Event Details:

📍 Location: Central Campus, Parr Quad
🗓 Date: Wednesday, April 9
Time: 11a.m.–2 p.m.

💛 What to Expect:

🐶 Therapy dogs – the ultimate stress relief!
🧘 Yoga – breathe, stretch, and unwind
💆 Massage therapy – yes, please!
🎨 Art & mindfulness activities
🍎 Snacks, games, giveaways, and more!
🎯 Interactive pop-ups with helpful self-care tips and campus resources

This is your chance to connect with wellness experts, discover resources, and show yourself some love with mindfulness, movement, and relaxation.

📩 Have questions? Call 704-330-6420 or email counseling@cpcc.edu

Don’t miss this opportunity to slow down, recharge, and focus on YOU. 💙

 

Connecting Students to Jobs: March Career Services Events

Students talking to employers at a hiring eventLooking for a job? Check Out These Recruiting Opportunities

Note: Employers are subject to change. Please click the event link and register for the most up-to-date information. Events are open to all students. Learn how to prepare to meet with employers. 

Medical Assisting and CNA Meet & Greet
Tue., Mar. 18, 1:30-3 p.m. | Levine Campus, Building 3, Tucker Lobby

Work-It Wednesdays 
Wed., Mar. 19, 10 a.m.-1 pm. | Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor

Transportation Systems Meet & Greet
Wed., Mar. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Merancas Campus, Transportation Systems Rm 112

Culinary and Hospitality Meet & Greet
Mon., Mar. 24, 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Central Campus, Van Every Culinary Arts Center

Work-It Wednesdays
Wed., Mar. 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor

Nursing and Networking Meet & Greet
Thu., Mar. 27, 1-4 p.m. | Central Campus, Health Careers Building, 4th Floor

April Preview! 

Teacher Preparation and Education Panel + Meet & Greet
Wed., Apr. 2, 3:30-5:30 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center 1000

Career Connect – Resume Drop-in and Networking + Professional Headshots
Thu., Apr. 3, 1-4 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center 0070

Transportation and Public Safety Open House

A student works on a large engine.Are you still undecided on a program to study? Join us Wednesday, March 26, at our Transportation and Public Safety Open House to explore our programs. You’ll have an opportunity to:

  • discover our transportation and public safety academic programs
  • meet inspiring faculty
  • immerse yourself in real-world experiences such as learning how to drive in a police car simulator or exploring how electric vehicles work
  • tour the classrooms and labs on Merancas Campus
  • learn more about scholarships and financial aid

We can’t wait to see you there!

📆: Wednesday, March 26
🕛: 3 – 6 p.m.
📍: Merancas Campus, Merancas IV

REGISTER NOW

🎨 New Archives Exhibit: The Visiting Artists of Central Piedmont

Reads, "The visiting artists of Central Piedmont" with a collage of artist photosIn addition to “Read All About It: Student Publications at Central Piedmont, 1965-2005,” the Central Piedmont Archives has unveiled a new exhibit on the third floor of Hagemeyer Library—and it’s a must-see for art lovers!

🖼️ About the Exhibit

📍 Location: Central Campus, Hagemeyer Library, 3rd Floor
📅 On View Until: End of 2025

“The Visiting Artists of Central Piedmont” explores the Visiting Artist Program, a statewide initiative launched in 1971 by the North Carolina Arts Council and the NC Community College System. This program brought talented artists to community colleges across North Carolina to offer free workshops, lectures, and performances, enriching local communities and deepening their appreciation of the arts.

✨ What You’ll See:

🎨 Artworks created by former visiting artists
📰 Newspaper clippings covering their impact
📸 Photographs & archival materials from 1971-1992
📚 Interactive components showcasing their work

This exhibit celebrates creativity, history, and the role of art in education—don’t miss it!

Skilled Trades Connect: Your Opportunity to Get Hired! 💼

Students and employers engaging

Looking for a job, internship, or part-time work in the skilled trades industry? Don’t miss Skilled Trades Connect, Central Piedmont’s annual hiring event, where top employers are ready to meet and recruit students like YOU!

📅 Event Details:

📍 Location: Harper Campus, Harper IV Lobby
🗓 Date: Wednesday, February 26
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

💡 Who’s Hiring?

Employers are looking for students in these Skilled Trades programs:

✔️ Advertising + Graphic Design
✔️ Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration
✔️ Architectural Technology
✔️ Construction Management
✔️ Electrical Systems
✔️ Interior Design
✔️ Non-Destructive Examination
✔️ Sustainability Technologies
✔️ Welding

🔎 Get Prepared!

🔹 Update your resume – Highlight your skills & experience
🔹 Dress professionally – Make a great first impression
🔹 Research employers – Know who’s hiring and what they’re looking for

📌 For a full list of employers & prep resources, visit: skilledtrades.cpcc.edu.

Spring Healthcare Open House Feb. 18

Healthcare students learning with hands-on activities

Still undecided on a program of study? Join us Tuesday, February 18, at our healthcare open house to learn more about our health professions and human services offerings. You’ll have an opportunity to: 

  •  discover our 21 healthcare programs such as medical assisting, massage therapy, physical therapist assistant, or occupational therapy assistant 
  • meet inspiring faculty  
  • immerse yourself in real-world experiences  
  • visit our state-of-the-art labs and classrooms  
  • learn more about scholarship and financial aid information 

 We can’t wait to see you there! 

 Event Details

📆 Tuesday, February 18, 5 – 7 p.m.
📍 Central Campus, Health Careers Building
🔗 Register now

💌 Get Creative with Valentine’s Day Cards at Harper and Harris Campuses

Student laughing while writing a note with a feather pen

Looking for a fun way to spread some love this Valentine’s Day? We’ve got two opportunities for you to create heartfelt Valentine’s Day cards for someone special in your life—whether it’s a friend, partner, family member, or anyone who deserves a little extra appreciation! 🥰

Here’s when and where you can join the card-making fun:

📅 Tuesday, February 11
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
📍 Harper Campus, Harper IV, Library

📅 Thursday, February 13
⏰ 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
📍 Harris Campus, Harris 1, Lobby

✨ Supplies will be provided, so just bring your creativity and a smile! Spread love, one card at a time. ❤️

💵 Paid Internships at the Career Catalyst Fair: February 25

Student speaks with a recruiter at networking event

Connect with local employers to learn about internship opportunities and other ways to launch your career during the Career Catalyst Paid Internship Fair! Employers from several industries, including finance, education, engineering, and more are currently looking for Central Piedmont students to work in paid summer internships. Open to all Central Piedmont Students. Click here to see what positions are available and how you can prepare.

Event Information: 

  • Date: Tue., Feb. 25
  • Time: 2 – 4 p.m.
  • Location: Central Campus, Parr Center, Rooms 1000, 1010, 1050
  • Register today!

Need help preparing? Make an appointment with a Career Counselor on Handshake or stop in for drop-in hours at Central Campus, CH 206 between 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Library Makerspace: Crafting

Student measuring fabric on the floor

🧶 Calling all crafters!  Want an extra push to work on your project?  A group of other textile enthusiasts to encourage you to complete your current work in progress?  Then look no further!  This close-knit community offers time and space for you to work on your current project. While we don’t teach you how to knit/crochet/sew, we offer encouragement, tips, and camaraderie!

📍 Central Campus, Parr Center Hagemeyer Library Makerspace, Room 2250
📆 Last Monday of every month, Noon – 1 p.m.

For additional information, contact Faith Wahlers, Makerspace Librarian

TGI Mixtape Vol. III: Get Happy with Special Guest Lillias White

A group of TGI students headshots surrounding a headshot of Lillias White on a blue and black background

Join Theatre Gap Initiative for an unforgettable evening of music, dance, and celebration at TGI Mixtape Volume 3: Get Happy. This vibrant showcase highlights the talent and artistry of our TGI students as they take the stage to share their passion for the performing arts.

We are thrilled to honor Broadway icon and Tony Award winner Lillias White (Hadestown, Dreamgirls, Chicago, The Life, Fela!) with TGI’s inaugural Trailblazer Award for her extraordinary contributions to the arts and her commitment to inspiring future generations of performers.

Get ready for a night filled with joy, inspiration, and a few special surprises as we celebrate the power of theatre to transform lives. Don’t miss this celebration of talent and trailblazing excellence!

📆 When: March 1, 7 p.m.
📍 Where: Central Campus, Parr Center
🎫 Tickets: Between $12.53-$58.62

🔗 Don’t wait, buy your tickets today!