Halifax Community College proudly recognized National Apprenticeship Day on April 30 by celebrating the success of one of our outstanding apprentices, Makiyah S. Phillips.

Makiyah began her journey as a child development floater apprentice on October 14, 2024, through a registered apprenticeship program sponsored by Choanoke Area Development Association. 

With a requirement of 1,000 hours of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction, Makiyah has completed all program requirements and was scheduled to graduate today.

This achievement is a testament to the power of registered apprenticeships — an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway that allows individuals to gain paid work experience, receive mentoring, earn progressive wages, complete relevant coursework, and earn a portable, nationally recognized credential.

“Apprenticeship programs like these are not only building stronger communities, they are launching careers,” said Dr. Patrena B. Elliott, president of HCC. “Makiyah’s hard work and dedication exemplify how these opportunities change lives.”

As we honor apprentices nationwide, we applaud Makiyah and her sponsor, CADA, for their commitment to developing North Carolina’s workforce and investing in the future of early childhood education.

For more information about apprenticeships in North Carolina, visit this link