Guilford County Schools Launches New Advanced Manufacturing Academy

Guilford County, N.C. - Guilford County Schools (GCS) is answering the call of industry with the creation of a new Signature Career Academy (SCA) at Southeast Guilford High School.  

The district held a renovation kickoff event Tuesday for the new facility at Southeast High, which will immerse students in an advanced manufacturing and engineering-based curriculum. The project is supported by $2.1 million in grants and donations from GMA/FirstPoint Foundation, Bryan Foundation, Toyota USA Foundation, Golden LEAF Foundation and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

This career-focused program teaches students invaluable skills with real-world applications and sets them on a path to success after graduation.  

“This is what’s possible when a community works together to accelerate impact, dream big and act boldly to ensure that every student has the guidance, access and opportunity to build a bright future,” Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley said.  

Southeast High becomes the district’s sixth Signature Career Academy, aligned with in-demand industries in the Piedmont region. The other academies focus on: 

• Transportation, Distribution and Logistics at Western High; 

• Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security at Northeast High and Kearns Academy; and 

• Biomedical and Specialized Health Sciences and Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering at Smith High.  

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the advanced manufacturing and engineering industry is projected to grow 11 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations, with a median annual wage of more than $100,000. 

“We can break cycles of generational poverty and prepare our graduates for successful futures while also meeting the needs of the many businesses that are choosing Guilford County,” Oakley said.  

Expanding the SCA allows students to focus on their future while creating clear pathways to college, credentials, and career experiences throughout their K–12 education. The program aligns with regional workforce needs and supports Guilford County’s growing economy by preparing students with relevant, in-demand skills. It is part of the Guilford Guarantee, the district's promise that every graduate can leave high school with college credits up to an associate’s degree, an industry-recognized credential, or a meaningful workplace experience such as an internship, apprenticeship, or job shadowing. 

During a soft launch of the program in the 2024-2025 school year, student interest was strong: 

• 73 students took Advanced Manufacturing I, offered in both the fall and spring semesters; and 

• 58 students took Intro to Engineering Design, offered in the fall semester. 

Based on the early interest, the school has expanded the program and launched the Level II courses this year. 

“Through our work with business, industry, and philanthropic partners, it has become clear that Guilford County Schools can be a solution to workforce development in this region,” Oakley said. “When students understand their strengths and interests and are equipped with skills that meet today’s job market, we support families, fuel economic growth and strengthen the future of our entire community.” 

Work on the facility is expected to be completed in fall 2026.