At Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, every path is different, but each one is part of something bigger. Trail Mix brings together the people, programs and possibilities that make the College a hub of learning, growth and connection. In each episode, you’ll hear real conversations with students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners who are shaping the future of our community one step at a time.

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Rowan-Cabarrus Community College is experiencing record enrollment, but what does that growth mean for the future of South Campus? In this episode of Trail Mix, Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol S. Spalding, Rowan-Cabarrus Vice President of Workforce and Technology Dr. Zack Hubbard and Cabarrus County Manager John Eller discuss the proposed $60 million Cabarrus County Community College bond on the Nov. 3 ballot.The conversation explores the need for additional instructional space, plans for a new Workforce Innovation Center and renovations to an existing South Campus building. Learn how general obligation bonds work, the estimated impact on property taxes, and what the proposed projects could mean for students, employers, and the broader community.

027 | Beyond the Ballot: Understanding the Cabarrus County Community College Bond

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Vice President of Student Success Services Dr. Natasha Lipscomb, Executive Director of Recruitment, Advising and First Year Experience Amy Weatherman and Director of Marketing and Communications Aaron Tallman about Rowan-Cabarrus Community College reaching a historic enrollment milestone of more than 8,000 curriculum students in fall 2026. The conversation explores the efforts behind the College&#39;s record enrollment, including how strategic marketing, recruitment initiatives and student support services work together to connect prospective students with educational opportunities and help them navigate their educational journeys. This episode also highlights the changing needs of students, the importance of expanding access to higher education and the College&#39;s continued commitment to helping students achieve their educational and career goals.

026 | Celebrating a Historic Enrollment Milestone at Rowan-Cabarrus

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Executive Director of College and Career Readiness Jay Taylor and Lead Instructors Mandy Thacker and Bridget Henderson about the Skills, Opportunity, Awareness and Readiness (SOAR) program at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. The conversation explores how SOAR helps adults with intellectual disabilities develop academic, social, life and job skills while building confidence and greater independence. This episode also highlights student experiences through Beacon&#39;s Bistro, the annual SOAR Prom and the many ways students build connections, practice their skills and become more involved at Rowan-Cabarrus.

025 | Helping SOAR Students Build Life Skills

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Student Government Association President Nicky Robinson, Student Life Coordinator Jaworski Sartin and Director of Adult Learner and Student Engagement Programs Dr. Carrie Graham about student life at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. The conversation explores how clubs, campus events, leadership opportunities and the Student Government Association help students build connections, find their voice and make the most of their college experience. This episode also highlights the role of student leadership, opportunities to get involved across campus and the people and resources available to help students find a sense of community and belonging at Rowan-Cabarrus.

024 | Making the Most of the College Experience with Student Life

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Program Chair Aimee Durham, faculty member Kathy Knight and current student Braeden Culp about the Cybersecurity and Network and Virtualization programs at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. The conversation looks at how the programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience to prepare students for the technology systems and security challenges they will encounter in the workforce. The episode also covers the connection between networking and cybersecurity, opportunities to earn industry certifications, cybersecurity competitions and internships, and the College’s designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.

023 | Inside Careers in Cybersecurity and Networking

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Faculty Advisor Chad Nichols, Rowan-Cabarrus FBLA Collegiate Chapter President Kiara Davis and National FBLA Collegiate Executive Vice President Colin Williams about the opportunities and experiences available through Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate (FBLA-C). The conversation explores how FBLA-C helps students develop leadership skills, build professional networks, compete at the state and national levels, and gain experiences that extend beyond the classroom. This episode also highlights the value of mentorship, student leadership, professional development and the lasting impact of getting involved, demonstrating how FBLA-C prepares students to lead with confidence in college, their careers and their communities.

022 | Building Leaders Through FBLA

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Director of Campus Health, Safety and Security Jeff Insley and Campus Safety Coordinator Dean Vernon about the people, planning and partnerships that support campus safety at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. The conversation explores the College&#39;s all-hazards approach to campus safety, the importance of building relationships with students and employees, and the behind-the-scenes work that supports a secure learning environment across all campuses. Listeners will learn about recent safety and security upgrades, how the College prepares for emergencies, and the role campus wellness resources play in supporting students, employees, and visitors.

021 | Inside Campus Health, Safety and Security

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What happens when life interrupts your path to a high school diploma? In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield connects with lead faculty Darrell Graham and Mary Jane Hartley to discuss how the Adult High School and High School Equivalency programs work, who they are designed for and how these flexible options help students balance education with work, family and life responsibilities. Plus, recent graduate Brianna Crisco shares her story of returning to school, finishing her credential and preparing for what comes next.

020 | Finishing What You Started: Adult High School and High School Equivalency

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In this episode of Trail Mix, hosts Carter Wingfield and Tabitha Harry talk with Chief Officer of Human Resources and Organizational Culture Nikki Eubanks and Recruiting Specialist Edwin Rodriguez about career opportunities at Rowan-Cabarrus and what makes the College a unique place to work. The conversation explores the College’s employee culture, professional growth opportunities, benefits and commitment to supporting both students and employees. This episode also highlights the upcoming Summer Career Fair, the variety of roles available across the College and the many ways Rowan-Cabarrus employees contribute to student success, strengthen communities and make a meaningful impact throughout the region.

019 | Building a Career That Matters

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield sits down with Rowan-Cabarrus students Kylie Baucom, Halei Hamby and Michael Shoe to celebrate the Class of 2026 and reflect on their journeys. The conversation explores what brought each student to Rowan-Cabarrus, the challenges they overcame along the way and the support systems that helped them succeed.

018 | Student Stories from the Class of 2026

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield sits down with Anna Marie Prado, Physical Therapist Assistant Program Director; Dr. Amy Mahle, Occupational Therapy Assistant Program Director; Nick Solomita, Physical Therapist Assistant student; and Faith Bitsko, Occupational Therapy Assistant student to explore two of the most in-demand careers in healthcare. The conversation highlights how these professions help patients recover from injury, illness or surgery by restoring movement, independence and quality of life. Guests share real-world examples of patient care, explain the key differences between occupational and physical therapy and offer insight into what students can expect from these hands-on programs at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.

In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield sits down with Anna Marie Prado, Physical Therapist Assistant Program Director; Dr. Amy Mahle, Occupational Therapy Assistant Program Director; Nick Solomita, Physical Therapist Assistant student; and Faith Bitsko, Occupational Therapy Assistant student to explore two of the most in-demand careers in healthcare. The conversation highlights how these professions help patients recover from injury, illness or surgery by restoring movement, independence and quality of life. Guests share real-world examples of patient care, explain the key differences between occupational and physical therapy and offer insight into what students can expect from these hands-on programs at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.

017 | Helping People Get Back to Life Through Careers in OTA and PTA

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield is joined by Director of the Small Business Center Meg Johnson and Redbird Thread Co. owner Sammie Abernathy to explore how Rowan-Cabarrus Community College supports local entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. The conversation highlights the free resources available through the Small Business Center, including one-on-one counseling, workshops and expert guidance designed to help individuals start, grow and sustain their businesses. Through Sammy’s firsthand experience building her downtown Concord shop, listeners gain insight into the realities of entrepreneurship, the value of seeking support early and the impact of community connections.

In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield is joined by Director of the Small Business Center Meg Johnson and Redbird Thread Co. owner Sammy Abernathy to explore how Rowan-Cabarrus Community College supports local entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. The conversation highlights the free resources available through the Small Business Center, including one-on-one counseling, workshops and expert guidance designed to help individuals start, grow and sustain their businesses. Through Sammy’s firsthand experience building her downtown Concord shop, listeners gain insight into the realities of entrepreneurship, the value of seeking support early and the impact of community connections.

016 | Free, Practical Help for Small Business Success

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Lead Program Manager of Training Services in Corporate and Continuing Education, Dr. Tricia Staggers and Program Manager for Personal Enrichment Courses, Tabitha Harrison, about the wide range of personal enrichment opportunities available at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. The conversation explores how these courses create accessible, flexible ways for community members to build skills, explore interests, earn certifications and experience lifelong learning outside the traditional college pathway. This episode also highlights summer enrichment camps for youth, popular offerings like sewing, photography, American Sign Language, notary, and motorcycle safety, and the many ways these programs help individuals and families discover new interests, strengthen confidence and connect learning to everyday life.

In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Lead Program Manager of Training Services in Corporate and Continuing Education, Dr. Tricia Staggers and Program Manager for Personal Enrichment Courses, Tabitha Harrison, about the wide range of personal enrichment opportunities available at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. The conversation explores how these courses create accessible, flexible ways for community members to build skills, explore interests, earn certifications and experience lifelong learning outside the traditional college pathway. This episode also highlights summer enrichment camps for youth, popular offerings like sewing, photography, American Sign Language, notary, and motorcycle safety, and the many ways these programs help individuals and families discover new interests, strengthen confidence and connect learning to everyday life.

015 | Personal Enrichment: From Sewing to Sign Language and So Much More

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Archive Services Librarian Laura Silva and Rowan-Cabarrus retiree Jeanie Moore about the people, moments, and milestones that have shaped Rowan-Cabarrus Community College over the years. The conversation explores how the Archives preserve the College’s history, why that history still matters today, and how major moments such as the Pillowtex closure revealed the College’s deep connection to the community it serves. Guests also reflect on the College’s 60th anniversary timeline project, memorable items preserved in the Archives, and the stories behind the people who helped build Rowan-Cabarrus into what it is today.

In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Archive Services Librarian Laura Silva and Rowan-Cabarrus retiree Jeanie Moore about the people, moments, and milestones that have shaped Rowan-Cabarrus Community College over the years. The conversation explores how the Archives preserve the College’s history, why that history still matters today, and how major moments such as the Pillowtex closure revealed the College’s deep connection to the community it serves. Guests also reflect on the College’s 60th anniversary timeline project, memorable items preserved in the Archives, and the stories behind the people who helped build Rowan-Cabarrus into what it is today.

014 | Hidden Stories Inside the Rowan-Cabarrus Archives

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Director of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs Allison Scott and Financial Aid Advisor Michele Giron about how financial aid helps students at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College reduce financial barriers and achieve their educational goals. The conversation explores the role of the FAFSA, the importance of financial literacy, and the many funding opportunities available to students, including federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, work-study opportunities, and support programs for student parents and veterans. The Financial Aid team works one-on-one with students and families to help them understand their options, plan for college costs, and discover that higher education may be more affordable and attainable than they realize.

In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Director of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs Allison Scott and Financial Aid Advisor Michele Giron about how financial aid helps students at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College reduce financial barriers and achieve their educational goals. The conversation explores the role of the FAFSA, the importance of financial literacy, and the many funding opportunities available to students, including federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, work-study opportunities, and support programs for student parents and veterans. The Financial Aid team works one-on-one with students and families to help them understand their options, plan for college costs, and discover that higher education may be more affordable and attainable than they realize.

013 | How Financial Aid Makes College Possible

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In this episode of Trail Mix, Carter Wingfield and Tabitha Harry talk with Executive Director of College and Career Readiness Jay Taylor and Food Service Instructor and Beacon’s Bistro Coordinator Stephanie Dunlap about the hands-on learning experience inside the Bistro at Rowan-Cabarrus. Beacon’s Bistro serves food to the campus community while also functioning as a real-world learning environment. Through the Bistro&#39;s partnership with the SOAR program, SOAR students build practical skills in food preparation, customer service and restaurant operations while gaining valuable workplace experience and developing confidence, independence and transferable skills.

012 | Beacon’s Bistro Brings Good Food and Learning to the Table

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In this episode of Trail Mix, co-hosts Carter Wingfield and Tabitha Harry explore how the Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Foundation supports students beyond the classroom. Executive Director of Advancement Connie Rheinecker and Occupational Therapy Assistant student and scholarship recipient Amber Huggins share how scholarships and emergency support remove financial barriers and help students stay focused on their education. The conversation highlights the Foundation’s role in funding scholarships, equipment and critical resources, as well as the lasting impact donor support has on student persistence, completion and long-term success.

In this episode of Trail Mix, co-hosts Carter Wingfield and Tabitha Harry explore how the Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Foundation supports students beyond the classroom. Executive Director of Advancement Connie Rheinecker and Occupational Therapy Assistant student and scholarship recipient Amber Huggins share how scholarships and emergency support remove financial barriers and help students stay focused on their education. The conversation highlights the Foundation’s role in funding scholarships, equipment and critical resources, as well as the lasting impact donor support has on student persistence, completion and long-term success.

011 | Scholarships Made Possible by the Rowan-Cabarrus Foundation

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In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Head of Education for Superhuman (formerly Grammarly) Jenny Maxwell, Rowan-Cabarrus Vice President of Workforce &amp; Technology Dr. Zack Hubbard, and Rowan-Cabarrus Program Chair of Associate in Arts, English &amp; ACA Dr. Jenny Billings about how Rowan-Cabarrus Community College is navigating the use of artificial intelligence in the classroom. The conversation explores responsible AI use, academic integrity, and the importance of strengthening critical thinking and communication skills. Guests also discuss the College’s partnership with Grammarly and how AI tools are being used intentionally to support learning rather than replace it, helping students prepare for success in both academic and professional settings.

010 | Navigating AI in the Classroom with Grammarly

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In this episode of Trail Mix, hosts Carter Wingfield and Tabitha Harry sit down with Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol Spalding for a candid conversation about leadership, vision and the lasting impact of education. Dr. Spalding reflects on her unexpected path into higher education, her approach to leading a growing college and why keeping students at the center of every decision matters. The discussion explores workforce development, community partnerships, and the belief that education is not an expense, but an investment that strengthens individuals and communities.

009 | Building a College for the Community ft. President Dr. Carol S. Spalding

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In this episode of Trail Mix, Carter Wingfield and co-host Tabitha Harry sit down with Art &amp; Design Program Chair Bailey Wingler and Art &amp; Design student Lance Brush for a look at how creativity takes shape at Rowan-Cabarrus. The conversation explores the Bridge Gallery, hands-on student projects and the new Creative Currents initiative that brings artists, musicians and writers to campus. Bailey and Lance share how community, mentorship and real-world experiences help students grow as artists and designers. They also highlight the many ways art and design connect people, spark curiosity and open doors for students as they discover their own creative path.

In this episode of Trail Mix, Carter Wingfield and co-host Tabitha Harry sit down with Art &amp; Design Program Chair Bailey Winkler and Art &amp; Design student Lance Brush for a look at how creativity takes shape at Rowan-Cabarrus. The conversation explores the Bridge Gallery, hands-on student projects and the new Creative Currents initiative that brings artists, musicians and writers to campus. Bailey and Lance share how community, mentorship and real-world experiences help students grow as artists and designers. They also highlight the many ways art and design connect people, spark curiosity and open doors for students as they discover their own creative path.

008 | How Art & Design Shapes a Creative Journey

The Latest from Rowan-Cabarrus

At Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, every path is different, but each one is part of something bigger. Trail Mix brings together the people, programs and possibilities that make the College a hub of learning, growth and connection. In each episode, you’ll hear real conversations with students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners who are shaping the future of our community one step at a time.