News

BRCC announces hiring of workforce development chief

Monica Carpenter

By Lightning Reports, Published: January 14, 2026

Monica Carpenter is the new vice president of economic and workforce development/continuing education at Blue Ridge Community College, the college announced.

In this role, Carpenter will lead workforce and continuing education programs and initiatives that support regional employers, expand access to career-focused training, and advance economic growth across the College’s service area and region.

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Carpenter to the executive leadership team at Blue Ridge Community College,” said BRCC President Laura B. Leatherwood. “Her extensive experience in higher education leadership and workforce development will support our efforts to strengthen industry partnerships, expand workforce training opportunities, and meet the evolving needs of our region.”

Carpenter brings more than two decades of community college leadership experience to her new role at Blue Ridge. She has served at Mayland Community College since 2008, most recently as associate vice president of workforce development and continuing education, as well as the dean of the Yancey Learning Center. She also previously served as Mayland’s director of enrollment management and held other education leadership roles through Vance County Public Schools and Western Piedmont Community College.

“I am excited to join Blue Ridge Community College at a time when workforce and economic development are more critical than ever,” she said. “Together with our campus and community partners, I look forward to strengthening the pathways that connect learners to meaningful careers and support sustainable economic growth throughout the region.”

A product of North Carolina's community college system, Carpenter began her own educational journey at Mayland Community College, earning an Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Gardner-Webb University, a master’s degree in two-year college administration, and a Doctor of Education in Community College Leadership from Western Carolina University.