Caterpillar Youth Apprenticeship program – a milestone of skill and collaboration

SANFORD, N.C. — The Caterpillar Youth Apprenticeship in Welding marked another powerful chapter in its legacy on Tuesday, May 13, as 14 graduating students crossed the stage and a new class of 16 apprentices took their first steps into the world of advanced manufacturing.

Held at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center, the annual celebration highlighted not only the accomplishments of the Class of 2025 but also the strength of a decade-long partnership that continues to fuel workforce development in central North Carolina.

Launched through a collaboration between Caterpillar, Central Carolina Community College, Lee County Schools, and the North Carolina Community College System, the program is designed to give high school students early access to in-demand skills, professional experience, and a direct path to employment. It stands as a living example of what happens when industry and education align around a common goal: preparing the next generation for high-quality, high-tech careers.

Each graduate earned a 12-hour Industrial Systems Certificate from CCCC, a High School Recognition Certificate from the statewide community college system, and accrued valuable on-the-job hours that count toward an adult apprenticeship. Many are now eligible for preferred placement with Caterpillar’s Sanford facility, placing them directly into the region’s advanced manufacturing sector.

CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman opened festivities honoring the 14 graduates, noting, “This is a really big deal – it’s a big deal that you were selected and it’s a big deal that you persisted and succeeded.”

Lee County Schools Superintendent Dr. Chris Dossenbach told the graduates, “Carry with you the pride that you accomplished tonight because it is a big deal. … Congratulations, enjoy this moment!”

The ceremony recognizing each student individually for their hard work and commitment. As names were announced by Dr. Sara Newcomb, CCCC Dean of Business & Applied Technologies, their personal reflections were shared with the audience, offering a glimpse into the perseverance and growth that defined their journey.

Also participating in the celebration were Charles Bell, CCCC Welding Department Chair; Zan Thornton, CCCC Lead Welding Instructor; Justin West, CCCC Welding Instructor; and Heather McKenzie, CCCC Lead Career Coach – Lee County.

Student speakers were Julien Popoca and Danis Cabrera Benitez.

Caterpillar Fabrications Production Manager Junior Landaverde introduced the incoming Class of 2027 welding apprentices.

Since its creation, the Caterpillar Youth Apprenticeship in Welding has stood out as a model of collaboration. Recognized in 2013 by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation as a “partnership worth repeating,” the initiative has grown into a cornerstone of workforce development in Lee County. It reflects a broader strategy: building talent pipelines that start in high school and lead directly to meaningful careers.

Class of 2025 Graduates: Timothy J. Bullard, Joshua R. Caballero, Danis Cabrera Benitez, Camden G. Johnson, Bryton K. Kelly, Alexander D. Lecorchick, Alan E. Maravilla, Eric Noyola-Rivera, Zuleima Ortiz Torres, Julien Popoca, Eric M. Quiroz, Zachary T. Womack, Grace E. Shover, and Kyle Shrestha.

Class of 2027 Inductees: Antwone Castillo Leiva, Vivas Campos, Adrian Dorsett, Hubert Garcia, Camden Hinesley, Luke Johnson, Andrew Jones, Thomas Lineberry, Ernesto Meza, Josue Miranda, Austin Norris, Ethan Oakley, David Stone, Enrique Terrones, Julian Trembley, and Jaydn Womack.