Trail Mix | Rowan-Cabarrus Community College

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

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.

019 | Building a Career That Matters

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.

018 | Student Stories from the Class of 2026

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.

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

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.

016 | Free, Practical Help for Small Business Success

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.