When Micah Scott first stepped onto the campus of Northeastern Technical College (NETC), he was not quite sure what he wanted out of life. Fresh out of high school, his interests were broad and his ambitions undefined. But there was one guiding light, his grandmother.

“My grandmother helped me,” Micah recalls. “I did not really know what I wanted to do. She knew my strengths and weaknesses, especially in math. That encouragement shaped my path.”

What began as a tentative exploration quickly became a long-term commitment. Micah spent seven years at NETC, a period that he describes as foundational not just academically but personally. He started with a certificate program and then transitioned to an Associate of Science while gaining hands-on experience as a tutor in the TRiO program under Jonathan Hodges.

“That experience was invaluable,” Micah says. “It gave me skills as a student and as a worker. I built connections, learned how to navigate college life, and gained insight from advisors who helped me map out my future.”

Following his time at NETC, Micah continued his education at Francis Marion University. Though his academic focus evolved over time, his love for mathematics remained a constant.

“Math was always something that brought me joy,” he explains. “It is intricate, computational, and a challenge I enjoyed tackling. I used to do math just for fun.”

His journey took a turn toward education after encountering inspiring faculty. A combination of a math course on abstract logic and a course on teaching students with disabilities opened Micah’s eyes to the possibilities of math education. Professors recognized his aptitude and encouraged him to pursue a teaching path. This allowed him to focus on K–12 education while keeping his passion for mathematics alive.

“Teaching gave me the chance to share what I loved,” he says. “It was more than doing math. It was about helping others understand it and see the beauty in problem-solving.”

Micah credits several mentors who shaped his approach to learning and teaching. One professor left a lasting impression by treating him as a peer and challenging him to think critically.

“He helped me understand that math is not just about numbers. It is about reasoning, logic, and communication,” Micah says. “Those lessons carry over into every aspect of life from relationships to decision-making.”

Looking ahead, Micah plans to pursue graduate studies at either Clemson University or the College of Charleston. While he has not decided where he will go, he is eager to experience new perspectives and continue growing intellectually.

“The goal is to surround myself with people going in the same direction,” he says. “I want to engage in meaningful conversations, learn from diverse experiences, and continue my journey of growth.”

For students beginning their academic journey at NETC, Micah offers practical advice. “Take your time. The first two years are your bridge. Find balance, do not rush, and use the time to prepare for the demands of a four-year university.”

Reflecting on his time at NETC, Micah describes his college experience in three words: immature, open-minded, and disciplined. These words capture his evolution from a young student unsure of his path to a focused and self-aware learner ready to take on new challenges.

At the heart of it all is the influence of his grandmother. “She helped me spiritually, emotionally, mentally, physically,” he says. “She guided me, advised me, and reminded me to enjoy the journey. Everything I have achieved is rooted in her support.”

Micah Scott’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship, perseverance, and a love for learning. From a curious high school graduate to a dedicated student, tutor, and aspiring educator, his path shows that success is not just about reaching the destination. It is about embracing the journey along the way.

Northeastern Technical College (NETC) students, faculty, and staff showed their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month during a week-long series of campus events across all four campuses. Participants donned pink attire to raise awareness and honor those affected by breast cancer.

Each campus had its designated day to participate: Cheraw Campus on Monday, Marlboro County Campus on Tuesday, Dillon Campus on Wednesday, and Pageland Campus on Thursday.

Raising awareness about breast cancer is a vital step in promoting early detection, supporting those impacted, and educating the community about prevention and resources. Through this week of events, NETC emphasized the importance of coming together to spread knowledge, show solidarity, and inspire action in the fight against breast cancer.

Northeastern Technical College (NETC) hosted its annual Benefits Fair on Tuesday, October 21, providing employees with valuable resources and guidance on benefits and financial coverage options. The event, held from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., featured a variety of vendors, interactive activities, raffles, candy treats, and pumpkin painting to create an engaging and informative experience.

Representatives from participating organizations, including AFLAC, Washington National, Lander University, CareSouth, First Bank, Founders Credit Union, Cartina Bank, and SPC Credit Union, were on hand to answer questions and assist attendees with understanding their options. Employees had the opportunity to explore benefit offerings, ask questions, and receive personalized guidance during the open enrollment period.

The Benefits Fair offered a fun and educational way for NETC employees to learn about available resources, make informed decisions about their coverage, and take full advantage of the college’s benefits programs.

Northeastern Technical College (NETC) made a strong presence at the 2025 South Carolina Jazz Festival, bringing both music and community outreach to the heart of Cheraw.

In addition to decorating a "Jazzy Tree" and kicking off the week with a lively performance by the Sam Edwards Quartet, NETC representatives were on site throughout the festival, engaging with attendees and sharing information about the college. Visitors received branded swag and had the opportunity to learn about higher education and trade program offerings.

“Being part of this festival allows us to connect directly with the community while highlighting the educational opportunities NETC provides,” said NETC President Dr. Wagner. “It is a great way to inspire festival-goers to explore pathways in both academic and technical fields.”

NETC’s involvement in the festival shows the college’s commitment to community engagement and its ongoing effort to support local cultural events while promoting education in Northeastern South Carolina.

Northeastern Technical College proudly joins the nationwide celebration of Medical Assistants Recognition Week from October 20 through 24, honoring the vital work of practicing medical assistants and the dedication of students currently training to enter the profession.

Medical assistants are often the first point of contact in a clinic or physician’s office. They take vital signs, prepare patients for exams, assist with procedures, manage patient records, and serve as an essential bridge between patients and providers. Their skillset spans both clinical and administrative duties, keeping healthcare facilities running smoothly while delivering compassionate, patient-centered care.

NETC also celebrates the many students currently enrolled in the Medical Assistant program who are actively training and completing hands-on clinical experience. These future professionals are preparing to step into high-demand roles that support physicians, nurses, and communities across the region.

As South Carolina continues to face a growing need for skilled healthcare workers, NETC is proud to play a role in developing the next generation of medical assistants. Graduates of the program go on to serve in hospitals, primary care offices, specialty clinics, and urgent care facilities where they make a direct impact on patient care daily.

To all current medical assistants and to all MA students working toward that title, Northeastern Technical College thanks you for your dedication, resilience, and service to others.



Your work saves time, supports families, and changes lives. This week, we celebrate you.

Culinary Arts students at Northeastern Technical College prepared and served a handcrafted lunch this week, treating guests to a menu full of fresh and comforting flavors.

ON THE MENU

• Reuben sandwich with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing on toasted rye
• Sausage and kale soup slow simmered with fresh ingredients
• Strawberry shortcake topped with fresh berries and cream
• Fresh strawberry lemonade made from scratch

This lunch experience is part of NETC’s hands-on training approach that prepares students with real-world skills in menu planning, food preparation, presentation and service.



These experiences help students build confidence, creativity and teamwork as they prepare for careers in restaurants, bakeries and hospitality settings.

Major progress is underway at Northeastern Technical College’s Cheraw campus as construction crews poured the first round of concrete for NETC’s new Schaeffler partnership facility.

The concrete pour marks a key milestone in the project, signaling the transition from groundwork to vertical construction. The building pad is now taking shape, and crews will soon begin erecting the structure that will become NETC’s newest state-of-the-art training facility.

“This is an exciting moment for the college and for our partners at Schaeffler,” said NETC leadership. “Seeing the foundation go in reminds us this is no longer just a plan. It is becoming a reality for our students and for workforce development in our region.”

The new facility will support high-demand industrial and engineering training programs, expanding NETC’s ability to prepare students for technical careers with companies like Schaeffler, a global leader in automotive and industrial manufacturing.

Construction is moving on schedule, with visible progress expected each week as the building begins to rise. NETC will continue to share updates with the community as the project advances.

Open Enrollment is here! While the official dates are October 1–31, employees can begin making coverage changes today for the upcoming year.

Any updates made during this period will take effect on January 1, 2026.

To ensure everything is in order, employees are encouraged to log into their MyBenefits account at mybenefits.sc.gov to:

• Verify that all personal information (address, phone numbers, email, etc.) is accurate and current.
• Make any necessary coverage changes for next year.
• Review existing coverage.
• Update life insurance beneficiaries.
• Provide up-to-date contact information for beneficiaries.

If employees are satisfied with their current choices, the only step needed is to re-enroll in the MoneyPlus flexible spending account if they participate.

Dental changes can only be made during odd years. This means 2025 is a dental year!

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