NCEdge Customized Training: Driving Business Growth and Building a World-Class Workforce in North Carolina

In today’s competitive economy, a skilled workforce is the most valuable asset a company can have. Upskilling employees is no longer optional—it’s essential for survival and long-term growth. That’s where NCEdge Customized Training, a signature program of the North Carolina Community College System, comes in. 

This no-cost program is designed to help qualifying companies sharpen their competitive edge by providing tailored, high-impact workforce training. Delivered through partnerships with all 58 of North Carolina’s community colleges, NCEdge connects businesses directly to the training, talent, and expertise they need—without the financial burden. 

A Statewide Solution with Local Impact 

NC Edge isn’t a one-size-fits-all program. Each college serves as a consultant and partner, working directly with businesses to identify needs and deliver solutions customized to their goals. Whether that means onboarding hundreds of new employees, introducing advanced manufacturing technologies, or building leadership pipelines, NC Edge creates training plans that drive measurable results. 

“Workforce development isn’t just about filling jobs—it’s about building futures. NCEdge empowers North Carolina’s colleges to lead with innovation, respond with agility, and deliver training that transforms communities,” said Betty Silver, Associate Vice President of NCEdge. 

The results speak for themselves: 

• More than 60 years of proven success in developing talent and driving business growth 
• Available in all 100 counties at over 150 sites through 58 community colleges 
• $2.3 billion in economic impact since 2020 as reported by independent survey 
• Consistently ranked as Top State to do business in 
• 97% of participating companies report excellent or very good outcomes 

From workforce planning and technical skills development to leadership training and onboarding support, NCEdge delivers solutions that strengthen businesses while creating stronger career pathways for workers. 

Proven Success Across Industries 

Companies large and small are seeing the benefits of customized training. 

“Compared to experiences in other states, the customized training is second to none,” said Wilfredo Ortiz, Vice President and Site Head at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, which partnered with NC Edge to scale its workforce and support long-term growth.  

This sentiment echoes across sectors: 

• Advanced Manufacturing firms rely on NC Edge to train employees on precision equipment, robotics, and lean processes. 
• Life Sciences companies use the program to ensure technicians meet strict compliance and quality standards. 
• IT and Cybersecurity employers tap into customized training to keep their workforce current with fast-evolving technologies. 
• Logistics and Warehousing operations improve efficiency and safety through industry-specific instruction. 

By aligning training directly with business needs, NC Edge helps companies reduce turnover, increase productivity, and remain globally competitive. 

Who Qualifies for NC Edge? 

The program is available to businesses in: 

• Manufacturing 
• Information Technology 
• Life Sciences 
• Logistics or Warehousing 
• Customer Support Centers 
• Air Courier Services 
• Regional or National Headquarters 

Companies must also meet at least two of these criteria: 

• Making a significant capital investment in North Carolina 
• Creating new jobs 
• Deploying new technologies 
• Expanding the workforce 
• Enhancing productivity and profitability 
• Improving workforce skills 

This eligibility framework ensures that NC Edge investments deliver maximum impact for both companies and communities. 

A Cornerstone of North Carolina’s Workforce Strategy 

The NCEdge program reflects North Carolina’s long-standing commitment to workforce excellence. By giving companies the tools to train and retain talent, the program supports both immediate business growth and long-term economic development. 

Every year, thousands of workers gain new skills through NCEdge. Every year, companies expand capacity, adopt new technologies, and reach new levels of performance. And every year, the program reinforces North Carolina’s reputation as the best state in the nation to do business. 

NCEdge isn’t just a training program—it’s a cornerstone of North Carolina’s workforce strategy. It fuels job creation, attracts industry investment, and prepares workers for the future. 

Ready to Get Started? 

If your company is expanding, investing, or in need of specialized workforce support, NCEdge is here to help. Connect with your local community college to learn how customized training can transform your business.  

Learn more about NCEdge here or contact Betty Silver.