Halifax Community College this week celebrated its 54th Founders’ Day and also cut the ribbon for its new Advanced Manufacturing and Corporate Training Center.

The new center will offer a range of curriculum and the building was ushered in Monday with assistance from Enviva as well as Thomas A. Stith III, president of the North Carolina Community College System.

The center will host classes in automotive technology, welding technology and industrial systems technology. The facility also offers classrooms, conference rooms and a maker space.

All gallery photos provided by the college with the exception of the ribbon-cutting photo which was taken by Enviva

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United States Congressman G.K. Butterfield delivered the Founders’ Day keynote address, recognizing the role the college has played in the community and those who helped found the institution.

HCC President Michael Elam welcomed guests to tour the training center and Stith tried his hand at using a virtual welding tool under the guidance of the school’s welding instructor, Jason Shotwell.

Elam and Stith talked with automotive technology students and observed as instructor Keith Mumford guided his students through an engine repair.

Stith commended the students for their initiative and drive to improve the economic futures for themselves and their families. “Congratulations to you for taking the opportunity to invest in yourselves and your own futures. You have many options in life but you chose Halifax Community College to enhance your education so that you can go on and have a career.”

Stith took the helm at the system office in January and is visiting all 58 campuses across the state.