Last month, the Sanford Area Growth Alliance (SAGA) introduced an innovative initiative to support local employers and educational institutions. The Human Factor program, launched in 2024, is designed to connect Human Resources professionals from local businesses with resources and insights to enhance hiring and employee retention efforts.
This quarterly series provides targeted presentations with consistent themes, featuring new speakers each quarter to engage attendees and deliver actionable resources. In November, SAGA hosted the fourth-quarter installment of the Human Factor series, titled “Link to the Pipeline.” This session focused on strengthening the pipeline of future talent emerging from local universities and community colleges, including recent graduates and adult learners.
NC State University: Industry Expansion Solutions and Rural Works Internship Program
Anna Mangum, Regional Manager for NC State University’s Industry Expansion Solutions (IES), showed participants how the university’s extension service supports manufacturers in improving productivity, efficiency, quality, and profitability. Part of the School of Engineering, IES offers programs that directly benefit industries in rural areas.
Anna also highlighted the Rural Works internship program, a program of NC State’s top-25-ranked School of Engineering. This program connects engineering students with paid summer internships in rural communities. For the summer of 2025, six Lee County companies have posted eight internship positions, receiving an impressive 179 student applications.
If your company is interested in hosting an NC State intern, it’s not too late to participate. This program provides an excellent opportunity to showcase Sanford as a vibrant community for young professionals to launch their careers.
Campbell University: A Hands-On Approach to Engineering Education
Dr. Alison Polasik from Campbell University’s School of Engineering shared insights into their dynamic and growing program. With a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and real-world problem-solving, Campbell’s engineering students collaborate with industry partners to tackle technical challenges.
Dr. Polasik also encouraged local businesses to participate in Campbell’s annual job fair each September. This event fosters direct connections between employers and students, creating pathways for internships and employment opportunities.
Central Carolina Community College: A Local Workforce Pipeline
Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) continues to be a cornerstone of workforce development in Lee County. Dr. Kristi Short and Margaret Roberton presented on the wide array of training programs and resources available to local employers. From customized courses to robust apprenticeship programs, CCCC provides the tools needed to meet industry demands.
Programs like Central Carolina Works and the Promise Program are actively cultivating a skilled workforce pipeline, ensuring that local manufacturers have access to talent ready to contribute to their success.
If your company’s Human Resources team has not attended the Human Factor series, please encourage them to do so. For more information or to register for upcoming events, please contact Crystal Gaddy at cgaddy@growsanfordnc.com or 919-774-8439 ext. 1505.
Crystal can also connect you with NC State University, Campbell University, or Central Carolina Community College to explore opportunities tailored to your company’s needs.
Crystal Gaddy, Business Retention and Expansion Director