[Clinton, N.C.]– Sampson Community College (SCC) is laying the foundation for tomorrow’s leaders in construction with the launch of its Online Construction Management Degree Pathway—designed specifically for working professionals ready to move up in the field.

Combining online courses with Work-Based Learning (WBL), the program gives students the opportunity to earn college credit for the hands-on experience they’re already gaining on the job. Those currently employed in the construction industry may even use their current workplace as their WBL site, turning real-world projects into real college progress.

“The online Construction Management pathway was developed in response to growing demand from both students and industry partners for flexible, skills-focused training that supports career advancement,” said Carla Garcia Colin, Chair of Construction Trades. “Many professionals in the field are looking to transition into supervisory or project management roles, and we saw an opportunity to meet that need with a program that allows them to continue working while earning a degree.”

WBL has been built to be a cornerstone of the pathway curriculum. “It allows students to earn academic credit for their job experience while deepening their understanding of the course material,” Garcia Colin explained. “It bridges the gap between classroom concepts and real-world application, helping students connect theory to practice. For those already in the industry, WBL reinforces professional growth and strengthens their position for promotions or new roles.”

Built with the working individual in mind, this program reflects SCC’s broader commitment to flexible, accessible education. Every program across campus undergoes regular evaluation with student needs at the forefront. From scheduling to delivery methods, SCC prioritizes real-world solutions that support student success—especially for those balancing education with full-time employment.

Garcia Colin emphasized the unique nature of this program: “Our online Construction Management program is designed with the working student in mind. It combines asynchronous coursework, flexible scheduling, and applied learning opportunities like WBL to create a pathway that fits into the lives of busy professionals. Unlike more traditional programs, this one emphasizes management-level competencies, such as leadership, scheduling, contracts, and safety while still grounding students in construction principles.”

Students will complete practical, career-driven courses in areas such as print reading, construction management fundamentals, supervision, materials and methods, safety, and more—gaining the skills and knowledge to step confidently into leadership roles.

Sampson’s online instruction doesn’t sacrifice quality for convenience. “We’ve learned that flexibility, relevance, and support are key,” Garcia Colin said. “Many of our students are balancing full-time jobs, family responsibilities, and school. As a result, we’ve prioritized online delivery, modular content, and practical assignments that align with real job tasks. We also work closely with employers to ensure our curriculum stays aligned with workforce demands. This feedback loop helps us design programs that truly support student success.”

Prefer in-person learning? Traditional options are still available on campus. More information can be found at http://www.sampsoncc.edu/construction-management.

To learn more or see if you qualify for Work Based Learning or to enroll in our Online Construction Management pathway, contact Carla Garcia Colin at (910) 900-4130 or visit http://www.sampsoncc.edu/construction.

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.