SANFORD, N.C. - Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) welcomed state legislators and community leaders to a Legislative Delegation Breakfast on Thursday, Jan. 16, at the E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to shape the future of workforce development in the region.

North Carolina Senator Jim Burgin, Representative Joseph Pike, and Representative John Sauls joined CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman and Julian Philpott, Chairman of the CCCC Board of Trustees, along with key stakeholders, to discuss the college's ongoing efforts to meet the region's growing demand for a skilled workforce.

Dr. Chapman and Chairman Philpott expressed gratitude to the legislative delegation for their continued support of community colleges.

The breakfast offered a platform to highlight the transformative impact of the Moore Center, located on CCCC's Lee Main Campus. Situated in the heart of an area experiencing economic growth, the Moore Center is a 220,000-square-foot facility on a 21.4-acre site acquired through the generosity of the Lee County Board of Commissioners. It is poised to prepare workers for today's manufacturing jobs while equipping them with advanced biotechnology and manufacturing skills to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

"This is very important for the region," said Dr. Chapman, emphasizing the nearly $25 million invested in the center to date. She noted that the total cost of the project has risen from $70 million four years ago to $90 million today, stressing the urgency of continued investment. "The longer we wait, the more expensive it's going to be," said Dr. Chapman.

Jimmy Randolph, CEO of the Sanford Area Growth Alliance, underscored the Moore Center's importance as a driver of economic development. He noted that the college - which serves Chatham, Harnett, and Lee counties - is in the midst of a growing population area.

"The reality is that those companies looking to make an investment in their future are focused on our region because of the fact that we are growing, we are thriving ... and the reason for that is because of the decisions that people in this room have made to invest proactively in the future. We are a forward looking community," said Randolph.

Attendees also heard from Margaret Roberton, CCCC Vice President of Workforce Development, who provided updates on the Moore Center's progress and shared a highlight video showcasing its achievements, including the highly successful Manufacturing Day event.

Dr. Chapman unveiled the launch of a capital campaign to secure the funding needed to complete the Moore Center transformation. She recognized community champions Jan Hayes, Chet Mann, Jerry Pedley, and Julian Philpott for stepping forward to lead this vital initiative.

Dr. Chapman thanked the Central Carolina legislative delegation - and asked for their continued support of the Moore Center.

Among the attendees were Kirk Smith, Chair of the Lee County Board of Commissioners, Karen Howard, Chair of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners, Taylor Vorbeck, a member of the Lee County Board of Commissioners, and members of the CCCC Board of Trustees.

The Moore Center is a vital resource, fostering growth that's good for business, good for workers, and good for North Carolina.

For more information about Central Carolina Community College and its dedication to providing pathways to achievable dreams, visit www.cccc.edu.