SALISBURY, N.C. – North Carolina’s community college system earned the top ranking in the 2026 Workforce Development Rankings released by Site Selection Magazine, reflecting the impact of community colleges and employer-driven training statewide.
The annual rankings evaluate states based on workforce readiness, training capacity, labor quality and alignment between education and industry needs. North Carolina’s No. 1 ranking highlights a coordinated approach to workforce education that supports economic growth and business expansion across the state.
“Community colleges are central to North Carolina’s workforce success because of our close connection to employers and our focus on student outcomes,” said Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol S. Spalding. “This recognition reinforces the importance of the work happening at colleges like Rowan-Cabarrus, where workforce training is directly aligned with the needs of our region and the opportunities available to our students.”
As the eighth largest community college in North Carolina, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College contributes to this statewide success through workforce development and corporate education programs designed to meet the needs of regional employers while creating clear pathways to employment for students. Rowan-Cabarrus is the third largest workforce training provider in the state through corporate and continuing education, delivering customized training, professional certifications and industry-recognized credentials across high-demand fields, including advanced manufacturing, logistics and transportation, health occupations, and skilled trades.
Local investment in facilities and infrastructure plays a critical role in expanding workforce training capacity and increasing access to education across Rowan and Cabarrus counties.
“Cabarrus County is proud to partner with Rowan-Cabarrus Community College to expand opportunities for our residents,” said Cabarrus County Commission Chair Laura Lindsey. “Through our support of land acquisition for South Campus growth and design funding for a new facility, we are helping ensure more citizens have access to the education and workforce training they need to succeed right here in Cabarrus County.”
Similar investments in Rowan County further strengthen the College’s ability to respond to regional workforce needs and support long-term economic growth.
“Rowan County is proud to partner with Rowan-Cabarrus Community College as we invest in the future of our workforce,” said Rowan County Commission Chair Greg Edds. “The County Commission strongly supported the bond initiative that will help make the new Technology Education Complex and the Career and College Promise buildings possible because we know these kinds of projects create real opportunities for our citizens and strengthen our local economy right here in Rowan County. We are grateful for the College’s leadership and for the employers who continue to collaborate in preparing students for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”
In addition to short-term training and credentialing, Rowan-Cabarrus is a recognized leader in expanding work-based learning opportunities that connect students directly with employers through apprenticeships and other earn-while-you-learn models.
State leaders point to targeted investments in workforce training as a key driver of North Carolina’s national success.
“Investing in workforce training is one of the most effective ways we can strengthen North Carolina’s economy,” said Senator Carl Ford. “That’s why I helped secure funding for the truck driver training program at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Programs like this are exactly what drive our state’s #1 national ranking in workforce development.”
Workforce development programs at Rowan-Cabarrus are delivered by experienced professionals and shaped through collaboration with business, industry and workforce partners. Many training pathways offer access to scholarships and tuition assistance, helping expand opportunities and reduce financial barriers for individuals seeking to advance or change careers.
“Workforce development is strongest when education and industry are closely aligned,” said Rowan-Cabarrus Vice President of Workforce and Technology Dr. Zack Hubbard. “Our role as one of the state’s largest workforce training providers reflects a shared commitment to meeting real workforce needs while helping individuals build skills that lead to long-term career opportunities. This acknowledgement reflects the collective work happening within our local community as well as across the state.”
Through workforce development and corporate education initiatives, Rowan-Cabarrus designs training that reflects current workforce demand and evolving industry standards. Offerings include short-term credentials, professional certifications and customized training developed in collaboration with local and regional employers, supporting both individual career growth and business competitiveness.
In addition to workforce training, Rowan-Cabarrus continues to strengthen transfer pathways by integrating artificial intelligence skill development across all programs of study. Students in both workforce and transfer pathways gain exposure to emerging technologies and digital skills that support adaptability and readiness for an evolving job market.
By prioritizing skills-based education and responsive training, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College continues to support North Carolina’s workforce development efforts and strengthen economic opportunity throughout the region.