Continuing Education

Name:

Novie Westbrook

Program of Study:

South Carolina Manufacturing Certified (SCMC)

College:

Aiken Technical College

Completion Date:

August 2021

Tell us a little about yourself.

I grew up in New York City and moved to Aiken when I was in high school. After graduating from Aiken High, I entered the workforce and worked a variety of jobs in construction and food services before working in the chemical manufacturing industry. Unfortunately, I was laid off in 2021. After completing the SCMC in August of 2021, I was hired by Central States Manufacturing and an operator. This is a new company that started production in 2021 and I am glad to be a part of the team.

What made you decide to take this program?

A friend who works at Aiken Technical College told be about the course and that there was a mini-job fair at the end of the program. This is how I was connected with my employer Central States Manufacturing.  

What would you say is the top positive takeaway from the program?

The program is a great way to gain knowledge skills and experience for a variety of positions within the manufacturing industry.

What was your biggest challenge?

Nothing comes to mind. Having the GEER funding cover tuition cost removed a huge barrier.

What would be a word or phrase you would use to describe your experience at the college or in the program?

Fulfilling.

If you were to convince a friend to take the program, what would you say?

The program offers more than expected.