Lincoln County Health Academy Receives Statewide Honor for Workforce Innovation
At the 2025 NCWorks Partnership Conference, the Lincoln County Health Academy was recognized with the Governor’s NCWorks Award of Distinction for Outstanding Innovative Partnership. This is a prestigious accolade celebrating collaborative efforts that strengthen North Carolina’s workforce and create equitable career opportunities.
This forward-thinking initiative, based at Gaston College’s Lincoln Campus in Lincolnton, represents a powerful alliance among Gaston College, Lincoln County Schools, Atrium Health Lincoln, the Lincoln County Rotary Student Loan Fund, and the Centralina Workforce Development Board. Together, these partners have built a model that blends education, healthcare, and economic development into a scalable framework that is attracting attention across the state and beyond.
What Makes the Academy Unique?
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It offers high school students early, hands-on entry points into healthcare careers, including Practical Nursing (PN) and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)/Paramedic tracks.
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It launched North Carolina’s first PN program for high school students, placing Lincoln County among only three regions nationwide with such an advanced secondary healthcare pathway.
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Graduates can sit for their licensing exams the summer after high school, entering the workforce debt-free and fully prepared for high-demand roles.
Each Partner Plays a Critical Role:
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Lincoln County Schools align curriculum and provide student support.
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Gaston College delivers instruction and credentials through the state college system.
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Atrium Health Lincoln offers clinical training, mentorship, and employment opportunities.
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Lincoln County Rotary Student Loan Fund removes financial barriers by covering costs not met by state programs.
Since its launch in Fall 2024, the Academy has demonstrated impressive outcomes. The inaugural PN class began with 11 students and achieved a 73% retention rate, surpassing adult PN benchmarks. All continuing students passed their exams. The Fall 2025 cohort grew to 28 PN students, reflecting strong community trust and demand. In total, the Academy now serves 35 students, including EMT/Paramedic participants.
By combining rigorous academics, real-world experience, and robust community support, the Lincoln County Health Academy is setting a new standard for workforce development and inspiring similar efforts across North Carolina.
Learn more about this innovative program and its impact here.
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Get Involved – Apply to Join the Nursing
Workforce Coordinating Council |
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The Nursing Workforce Coordinating Council (NWCC) is seeking passionate leaders to help shape the future of North Carolina’s nursing workforce. We currently have 12 open seats for organizations representing nurses, employers of nurses, and nursing educators.
By joining the NWCC, you’ll collaborate with statewide partners to guide strategy, inform policy, and advance innovative solutions to strengthen our nursing workforce.
Apply now to make an impact: Complete the application form if you are interested in joining the NWCC. |
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A Message from the Team at South Piedmont AHEC
As we prepare for our Spring 2026 Catalog, we find ourselves reflecting on the constant change shaping healthcare today. These shifts - whether in technology, workforce dynamics, or patient needs - challenge us to adapt, innovate, and lead with resilience.
At South Piedmont AHEC, our mission remains steadfast: to recruit, train, and retain the health workforce needed for a healthier North Carolina. We serve providers and communities across our eight-county region, ensuring access to high-quality education and resources that strengthen care delivery.
Change is inevitable, but so is our commitment to you. Through collaboration, diversity, and continuous improvement, we strive to empower healthcare
professionals with the tools and knowledge to thrive in uncertain times. Together, we are building a future where every North Carolinian is supported by a skilled, compassionate workforce that reflects the communities it serves.
Thank you for joining us in this journey of growth and transformation. Your dedication inspires us every day, and we look forward to continuing to serve you with excellence.
With gratitude,
South Piedmont AHEC |
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On the Horizon: UPCOMING EVENTS |
South Piedmont AHEC Regional Healthcare Workforce Collaborative Meeting
January 22, 2026 | 2 PM–3:30 PM
Sponsored by South Piedmont AHEC and UNC Charlotte, this FREE event will provide prospective health careers high school students with the opportunity to explore a variety of health careers pathways. The event will feature campus tours, key impact speakers and an interactive expo packed with healthcare professionals and health science programs. |
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2026 Gerontology Symposium
January 29, 2026 | 8 AM–1 PM
Join this dynamic gerontologic symposium designed for clinicians, educators, and healthcare leaders who are committed to transforming care for older adults. Through interactive presentations and real-world case discussions, this event dives into the essential pillars of age-friendly care—helping you sharpen your skills in eliciting patient goals, managing medications responsibly, and identifying frailty with proven screening tools. |
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NC AHEC Academic Progression Conference
February 6, 2026 | 8:30 AM–1 PM
The 2026 NC AHEC Academic Progression Conference brings together nursing educators, faculty, and academic leaders to address the critical challenges shaping nursing education today. This conference will explore how we can better support student success, foster educator wellness, navigate regulatory requirements, and embrace emerging technologies – all while building a foundation of confident, healthy, and clinically competent nurses. |
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16th Annual Beyond the Manikin: Best Practices in Advanced Simulation Conference
March 5, 2026 | 8 AM–2 PM
Whether you're just getting started in simulation or you're a seasoned expert, this conference offers something for everyone. You'll discover new strategies to strengthen your simulation lab capabilities, explore emerging technologies, and connect with colleagues who share your passion for transformative healthcare education. |
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