Once Sampson Community College announced the approval of four new programs for the Fall 2020 semester in early March, including the Electrical Systems Technology and Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology (HVAC) programs, it knew there would still be a need for a lead instructor. When it came to making the decision, the college found that the most qualified, ideal applicant came from within. Director of Facility Services, Jake Miller, will officially begin his role as Lead Instructor for the Electrical Systems and HVAC programs on July 1.
Miller is a graduate of James Sprunt Community College, where he completed an Electrical and Electronics diploma program, but he has a lifetime of electrical experience under his belt. His father was an electrician, so Miller began learning the basics of the trade at an early age. After graduating from James Sprunt, Miller worked with Butterball as a Maintenance Technician, then with Wayne Electric Company, and then Rich Heating and Air. It was there that he first began to learn and train in heating and air systems. Then, he began as the Director of Facility Services in 2018. He says he’s pleased to transition to a faculty role and take on the task as lead instructor.
“I enjoy showing people how things work, so I’m excited to be over here and to help the community,” Miller shared.
In each job he’s had, Miller has always done a bit of teaching. From his time at Rich’s Heating and Air, to now, where he and his team problem-solve different issues around campus. Miller says he enjoys teaching, but also learning from those he works with.
These new programs were put on a fast track by the North Carolina Community College System due to the immense need for these types of jobs across the state. However, Miller also sees the need for the Electrical and HVAC programs in Sampson County and surrounding areas.
“We’ve had a few electrical classes, but there was no heating and air program close. So, it’ll be good for the rural area we’re in,” he commented.
Division Chair for Industrial programs, Barney Grady, knew Miller’s experience and his familiarity with SCC made him an ideal instructor. Miller is certified in both Electrical and HVAC. His connections also allow him to set students up with employers and for job opportunities.
“We are extremely excited to have Jake lead up our programs. He brings a great deal of experience in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. I have no doubt he will have a seamless transition into becoming an instructor and could not be happier to have him on our team,” Grady remarked.
The Electrical and HVAC programs, in addition to other vocational programs at the college, will be housed in a newly renovated, state-of-the-art building called the Sampson Trades Center. The Sampson Trades Center will be established thanks to donations from the Lonnie and Carol Poole Family Foundation, Bill Prestage and Prestage Farms, Waste Industries/GFL Environmental, and the Golden LEAF Foundation. The total renovation costs estimate to be around $2.2 million.
Registration for Fall 2020 courses begins July 1, and students can enroll in Electrical Systems Technology and HVAC courses then. Contact Barney Grady for more info about the new programs at SCC, call 910.900.4118, or email bgrady@sampsoncc.edu.
About Sampson Community College: Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options, and early college education.
