Rivers East Workforce Development Board

11/13/2025

PRESS RELEASE: More than 45 representatives from community colleges, public schools, healthcare providers, manufacturers, and skilled-trades employers gathered last week at Martin Community College for the ENC WIN Apprenticeship Summit, hosted by the Rivers East Workforce Development Board (WDB).

The summit Introduced the new Eastern North Carolina Workforce & Industry Network (ENC WIN) initiative, focused on building sustainable regional apprenticeship partnerships designed to strengthen the local workforce and expand opportunities.

To view the full press release, follow the link: http://riverseastwdb.org/enc-win-apprenticeship-summit-unites-education-industry-and-workforce-leaders-to-grow-eastern-north-carolinas-talent-pipeline/

11/13/2025

Yesterday, ECU Health Beaufort Hospital graciously hosted our Board Meeting! Board members and staff enjoyed a wonderful tour of the facilities, led by Pam Shadle, and learned about the incredible work being done at this “small but mighty” hospital — from its rich history and impressive advancements to exciting plans for the future.

During the meeting, Vice Chair of the Board, Wanda Williams, with Fuji Silysia, presented our Director, Jennie Bowen, with a special plaque recognizing her outstanding leadership and dedication to the Rivers East region. Also pictured with Wanda and Jennie is Jenny Brown, Chairwoman of the Board, who represents ECU Health.

We’re grateful for the hospitality and inspired by all the great things happening right here in our community!

10/20/2025

Attention Employers! You’re invited to attend the Eastern North Carolina Workforce & Industry Network (ENC WIN) Apprenticeship Hub Kickoff on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

This kickoff event marks the launch of a new regional initiative designed to help employers, educators, and community partners develop and expand registered apprenticeship programs that strengthen local talent pipelines and grow Eastern North Carolina’s workforce.

What to expect:
-Hear from employers who have successfully implemented apprenticeships
-Learn how Apprenticeships can support your organization
-Be inspired by a local apprentice success story
-Participate in breakout discussions to identify regional workforce needs and opportunities

To RSVP, register at the link below:
https://tinyurl.com/ENC-WIN

10/07/2025

In case you missed it: read Governor Stein's proclamation of October as Workforce Development Professionals Month! This month recognizes the contributions of workforce development professionals to North Carolina's economic development, helping jobseekers develop rewarding careers and connecting employers with talented employees.

Read the full proclamation: https://governor.nc.gov/governor-stein-proclaims-workforce-development-professionals-month


Governor Josh Stein

10/02/2025

Board staff had the opportunity to tour idX Corporation’s Washington, NC facility in recognition of Manufacturing Day! We were excited to attend, share Made In Beaufort County materials, and see firsthand the manufacturing work happening locally.

Manufacturing Day is tomorrow, October 3. Manufacturing Day, officially recognized on the first Friday in October, is a nationwide initiative that highlights modern manufacturing, inspires the next generation of skilled workers, and shows the critical role manufacturing plays in local communities and the economy. It’s a chance to connect students, job seekers, and the public with career opportunities in this growing field.

If you are interested in a career in manufacturing, idX has several job openings! Learn more by visiting: https://ufpi.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/ufpi?locationRegionStateProvince=1486a0a4a8464c3b9ec482d4038deb99

Thank you, idX, for hosting us and allowing us to learn more about your business and production process!

09/30/2025

Today several of our staff toured ECU Health’s Main Campus Hospital Food & Nutrition Services Department! We’re looking forward to strengthening our partnership and creating more work-based learning opportunities for our participants.

09/12/2025

09/11/2025

We had a great Board Meeting yesterday at Moratoc Park in Williamston. Thank you to Martin County for hosting us and thank you to Adrienne Whitaker, Career Development Coordinator at Martin County Schools, for presenting on the Innovation Campus and all the great things happening at MCS to prepare Youth for the workforce.

08/22/2025

Congratulations Larry, enjoy your retirement!

A longtime leader in our division, Larry Donley, recently received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from Governor Josh Stein. DWS Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Jones (pictured, right) presented this honor to Larry in Greenville, shortly after he retired as our Regional Operations Director for the Northeast Prosperity Zone.

The Order is the highest award for service to North Carolina that may be granted by the Office of the Governor.

Larry worked in public service for 30 years in roles related to education, work-based learning and workforce development – including the past ten years as part of our DWS team, providing leadership in a 17-county area. While serving as Regional Operations Director, Larry also served on two local workforce development boards and coordinated the division’s participation in the State Government Internship Program. Before joining our division, he was an administrator at East Carolina University.

Congratulations, Larry, and thank you for your dedication to our state!

North Carolina Association of Workforce Development Boards North Carolina Department of Commerce

08/20/2025

07/18/2025

Cornelia Cox is our new One Stop Specialist, supporting the NCWorks Career Centers across Beaufort, Bertie, Hertford, Martin, and Pitt Counties.

As she settles into her role, Cornelia is focused on helping the teams work together smoothly and efficiently to provide great service to everyone who visits the centers. She will also be coordinating partner meetings with local agencies to strengthen collaboration and enhance resources available to our community.

We’re excited to have Cornelia on board as she brings fresh energy and a commitment to making a positive impact!

07/17/2025

Callie Northern-Herring serves as our Service Delivery Manager, overseeing the team of Career Advisors across the region.

With a long history of dedicated service within our system, Callie recently transitioned into this leadership role, bringing valuable experience and a deep understanding of our mission. With Callie's leadership and dedication, she ensures that our staff are equipped to provide exceptional support and guidance to every individual we serve.

We’re excited to have Callie leading the way as we continue to empower our community!