Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has received nearly $30,000 in equipment from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
The in-kind donation represents approximately $30,000 and was donated to the college from the engineering technology and construction management program of UNCC to the electronics engineering technology program at Rowan-Cabarrus.
“I really want to thank UNC-Charlotte for their donation. This is a great example of the ever-improving relationship between community colleges and four-year institutions,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of Rowan-Cabarrus. “One of the college’s biggest challenges is keeping our programs equipped with industry-recognized, state-of-the-art equipment that is used in the workplace. This donation will help us in achieving that goal.”
The bulk of the donation includes 27 oscilloscopes. Electronics students use oscilloscopes to measure and determine variables and parameters such as currents, voltages, resistances and frequencies.
“Oscilloscopes are one of the most important tools in our electronics classrooms,” said Dr. Hasan Naima, dean of the college’s engineering and business technology division. “Every student in this program must know the tool extremely well in order to find a good job in the electronics industry.”
While also used in industrial settings, oscilloscopes are used to test, design and troubleshoot any type of electronic devices — from televisions and radios to microwaves and dishwashers.
The electronics engineering technology curriculum prepares individuals to become technicians who design, build, install, test, troubleshoot, repair and modify developmental and production electronic components, equipment and systems such as industrial or computer controls, manufacturing systems, communication systems and power electronic systems.
A broad-based core of courses, including basic electricity, solid-state fundamentals, digital concepts and microprocessors ensures the student will develop the skills necessary to perform entry-level tasks. Emphasis is placed on developing the student’s ability to analyze and troubleshoot electronic systems.
“Industry-recognized, high-tech equipment is critical to the success of our programs and our graduates,” said Dr. Rod Townley, vice president of academic programs. “If students can’t leave here knowing how to use the equipment that an employer uses, they won’t be as successful as the jobs require.”
Unfortunately, the college’s funding does not include an abundance of resources for equipment investments.
“Our resources from the state have continued to decline year after year,” said Spalding. “Like many public organizations, we are looking at other options and developing a case for support to seek private and philanthropic donations.”
The Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Foundation provides financial assistance to the students and programs of Rowan-Cabarrus. The foundation creates opportunities that expand college financial resources and develop sustainable programming for long-term fiscal stability. Every gift to Rowan-Cabarrus, no matter the size, makes a difference. There is always a need for unrestricted funds which provide the college the flexibility to meet its highest priorities.
Rowan-Cabarrus welcomes in-kind donations, which help the college keep pace with changing technology and equipment needs and meet the demands of increased enrollment. Gifts in kind must fulfill a stated need of one or more college departments, and be approved by facilities or IT personnel to ensure compliance with existing infrastructure.
For more information about Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, please visit www.rccc.edu or call 704-216-RCCC (7222).