Columbia, South Carolina — Chief Development Officer Chad Vick, Development Coordinator Andy Ingram, and Blaze, Northeastern Technical College mascot, represented the College at the annual Legislative Luncheon held February 25 at the South Carolina State House. The event was hosted by the South Carolina Technical College System in partnership with the South Carolina Association of Counties.

The annual luncheon brings together technical college leaders, county officials, and members of the South Carolina General Assembly to strengthen partnerships and discuss legislative priorities impacting higher education and workforce development. This year’s gathering was marked by strong attendance, positive energy, and meaningful conversations focused on advancing workforce education and supporting student success across the state.

During the luncheon, Vick and Ingram connected with members of the local legislative delegation, including State Representative Richie Yow, State Senator Allen Blackmon, State Senator J.D. Chaplin, State Representative Jason Luck, and State Representative Jackie Hayes. Discussions focused on legislative updates, workforce initiatives, and the continued economic and educational impact of Northeastern Technical College throughout its service area.

“This was a very productive meeting and a great opportunity to informally sit and fellowship with our delegation,” Vick said. “We are grateful for their continued support of NETC and for their commitment to the students we serve in each of our counties.”

The Legislative Luncheon provided an opportunity to celebrate the people and partnerships that move South Carolina’s technical colleges forward. Attendees enjoyed time connecting with legislators, partners, and supporters while engaging in important conversations about the future of workforce education. The event also highlighted the collective impact of the state’s technical college system and the students it serves.

Blaze joined mascots from technical colleges across South Carolina in welcoming attendees, adding school spirit and enthusiasm to the event. The presence of mascots from across the state symbolized unity among the colleges and reinforced the shared mission of preparing students for meaningful careers.

The luncheon serves as an important platform to recognize legislators for their continued investment in technical education and to highlight the vital role Northeastern Technical College plays in workforce training, economic development, and student success across the region.

Lauren Odom, Chief of Staff at Northeastern Technical College and the College’s Institutional Representative for South Carolina Women in Higher Education, attended the organization’s annual conference on February 19–20, 2026, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Columbia, South Carolina. The conference theme, Voices of Change: Learning, Lifting, & Thriving in Higher Education, emphasized leadership development, collaboration, and the advancement of women in higher education.

In her role as Institutional Representative, Odom serves as a liaison between Northeastern Technical College and SCWHE, supporting initiatives that promote professional growth, leadership development, and engagement among faculty, staff, and students. Her participation in the conference provided an opportunity to connect with higher education professionals across the state and to engage in discussions focused on strengthening leadership pathways for women.

The mission of SCWHE is to provide encouragement, empowerment, and professional development opportunities for individuals involved in higher education throughout South Carolina. The organization is committed to increasing the representation of women in leadership roles and fostering inclusive environments that support career advancement.

SCWHE is affiliated with the American Council on Education Women’s Network and collaborates with partner organizations to promote educational, social, and professional environments that elevate women’s voices and contributions within higher education systems.

Odom’s attendance reflects Northeastern Technical College’s commitment to professional development and to supporting initiatives that advance leadership, equity, and opportunity within higher education.

Marlboro County, South Carolina — The Rotary Club of Marlboro has established a new annual scholarship fund at Northeastern Technical College to support students from Marlboro County. The scholarship reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to expanding educational opportunities and strengthening the local workforce.

Members of the Rotary Club of Marlboro Executive Board recently met with Chad Vick, Chief Development Officer at Northeastern Technical College, to formalize the partnership and outline plans for the recurring scholarship. The fund will provide financial assistance to eligible students in Marlboro County, helping to reduce financial barriers and increase access to higher education.

Vick expressed appreciation for the Rotary Club’s investment in students and the community.

“We are incredibly grateful for the Rotary Club of Marlboro and their continued investment in our students,” Vick said. “This recurring scholarship will make a meaningful difference in the lives of students in Marlboro County. We are committed to ensuring that these funds are stewarded with integrity and that students are well served through this generous support.”

As part of the agreement, Vick will meet annually with Rotary leadership to provide updates on scholarship recipients and the impact of the funding. The partnership also serves as a model for other civic organizations across the College’s service area. College leadership plans to share this initiative with additional community partners to encourage similar investments in student success.

The scholarship reflects Rotary’s longstanding motto of service above self and its dedication to strengthening educational pathways within the region. By investing in local students, the Rotary Club of Marlboro continues to support workforce development and contribute to the long term economic vitality of Marlboro County.

For more information about the scholarship or to learn how to support student scholarships, contact the NETC Foundation Office.

The Northeastern Technical College (NETC) Nursing Department recently participated in Chesterfield High School’s Career Day, giving students an up-close look at opportunities in healthcare and nursing. The event allowed students to explore careers, ask questions, and gain insight into the skills and dedication required to work in the medical field.

Faculty from NETC’s nursing programs guided participants through hands-on demonstrations and interactive discussions. High school students were able to practice nursing skills they would use in the program, including basic patient care, vital sign monitoring, and proper safety procedures.

Chesterfield High School students expressed excitement and curiosity. Many noted how helpful it was to gain a firsthand perspective on nursing careers before making college and career decisions. By participating in events like Career Day, NETC strengthens its mission to educate, empower, and prepare students for successful careers in healthcare.

Be part of the NETC community with campus news, events, and resources. See how we support students, celebrate achievements, and bring the Trailblazer family together.

Watch NETC in action through student stories, hands-on training, and campus events. Explore tutorials, highlights, and behind-the-scenes moments that bring the Trailblazer experience to life.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at student life, hands-on learning, and campus events. From study sessions to celebrations, discover what it’s like to be a Trailblazer every day.

Connect with career opportunities, industry partnerships, and student success stories. Stay updated on programs that prepare you for the workforce and highlight how our graduates are making an impact.