A new opportunity known as Workforce Pell has been approved by the U.S. Department of Education to help cover the costs for eligible students enrolled in approved workforce training programs. The College is currently evaluating eligible programs and expects to submit several workforce training programs for approval in 2026. Approval is subject to state and federal review, and funding cannot be offered until that process is complete.
At this time, no Craven Community College workforce programs have been approved for Workforce Pell funding.
This page will serve as the College's official source for Workforce Pell updates, including approved programs, eligibility requirements, application information, and implementation timelines.
Programs Under Consideration
Craven Community College is considering the following workforce training programs for Workforce Pell approval:
- Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
- NCCER Electrical I
- NCCER Electrical II
- NCCER Welding I
- NCCER Welding II
- FAA General Airframe Mechanic
- FAA General Powerplant Mechanic
- EMS Basic
These programs were selected because they align with the anticipated Workforce Pell eligibility requirements and prepare students for careers in high-demand, high-wage industries. Program lengths range from approximately 8 to 15 weeks, with 150 to 599 clock hours of instruction, and many offer stackable credentials that support continued education and career advancement.
Please note: Listing a program on this page does not indicate approval. Final eligibility depends on successful state and federal review.
Why Workforce Pell Matters
Workforce Pell has the potential to significantly expand access to career training by:
- Making federal Pell Grants available for eligible short-term workforce programs
- Helping students earn workforce credentials with little or no student loan debt
- Connecting students more quickly to high-demand, high-wage careers
- Strengthening the connection between education and workforce development
- Expanding financial aid opportunities for workforce education students across North Carolina
What Makes a Program Eligible?
While final guidance continues to evolve, Workforce Pell programs are expected to:
- Lead to stackable, industry-recognized credentials
- Connect to future academic credit opportunities
- Demonstrate strong workforce demand and employment outcomes
- Meet state workforce system requirements
- Maintain high program completion rates
- Primarily be delivered by the college
These requirements are intended to ensure students receive high-quality training that leads directly to employment and long-term career growth.
Who May Benefit?
Workforce Pell is expected to be especially beneficial for:
- Students with financial need
- Individuals seeking short-term career training
- Students pursuing workforce credentials in high-demand industries
- Adults looking to enter the workforce quickly or advance in their current careers
Stay Connected
Workforce Pell implementation is still underway, and additional guidance will continue to be released throughout 2026. We encourage prospective students, employers, and community members to check this page regularly for the latest Workforce Pell updates.