Milestones In Motion: Altec Recognized as Outstanding Registered Pre-Apprenticeship Employer

The Surry County Economic Development Partnership is proud to celebrate a significant workforce development achievement in our community. During the recent ApprenticeshipNC Awards Ceremony, Altec was recognized as the Outstanding Registered Pre-Apprenticeship Employer, a prestigious statewide honor that highlights the company's commitment to developing the next generation of skilled talent.

Through its innovative partnership with Surry-Yadkin Works FLEET, Surry Community College, and local school districts, Altec has created a nationally recognized model for workforce development. The FLEET program is the first school-based pre-apprenticeship program in North Carolina to operate inside a manufacturing facility, providing students with a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience while completing their education.

Students participating in the program earn their high school diploma, college credit through Surry Community College, and industry-recognized credentials while developing both technical and professional skills. What makes the program especially impactful is its fully integrated structure. Students spend their school day at Altec's facility, receiving classroom instruction in a dedicated learning space while also gaining hands-on experience in active production environments. Participants contribute to meaningful manufacturing work, earn compensation for on-the-job training, and build direct connections to future career opportunities.

Since the program's inception, Altec has hosted nearly 100 pre-apprentices and currently employs more than 40 program participants. Looking ahead, the company anticipates serving more than 50 students through its FLEET and traditional pre-apprenticeship programs during the 2026-2027 school year.

"Altec is honored to have been selected as the ApprenticeshipNC Outstanding Registered Pre-Apprenticeship Employer for 2026," said Daniel Haymore, PE, Talent Sourcing Program Manager at Altec. "We're committed to investing in the next generation and providing opportunities for students in our communities to develop their professional skills. We are so thankful for the privilege of being a part of the Mount Airy community, and we look forward to connecting many more students to real-world manufacturing experience in the years to come."

This recognition reflects the strength of collaboration between industry, education, and workforce partners throughout Surry County. Congratulations to Altec, Surry-Yadkin Works, Surry Community College, and our local school systems for continuing to create innovative pathways that prepare students for successful careers while strengthening our region's workforce pipeline. Congratulations to Altec on this well-deserved statewide recognition and for continuing to lead the way in workforce development excellence!