Enrollment growth drives major expansion at Cape Fear Community College

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Cape Fear Community College says it is adding 73 new faculty and staff positions as part of an expansion tied to enrollment growth and new workforce training programs.

CFCC says the 73 positions represent the largest workforce increase in the college’s history. The college is also converting 11 grant-funded positions into permanent full-time roles.

The expansion comes as CFCC reports growth in both workforce and curriculum programs. Workforce Education enrollment hours increased 16% this year, while curriculum programs saw a 19% increase in full-time equivalent enrollment during the 2025-26 academic year.

The college also plans to introduce 19 new Continuing Education and Career and Technical Education programs between now and spring 2027, while expanding at least nine existing CTE offerings.

New programs will include training in areas such as laser welding, plastic injection molding, masonry, light-duty diesel technology, fire sprinkler technology, commercial refrigeration, heavy equipment maintenance and arboriculture.

CFCC is also adding programs related to film production, cinematography, camera operations, 3D modeling and printing, drone technology, fire department cadet training, jewelry and child care.

CFCC President Jim Morton said the expansion is intended to help the college keep pace with population growth and workforce demand in the region.

More information about the college’s programs is available through CFCC.