Propel: Free, Accelerated Workforce Training

Launch a new career or upskill in your current profession for free. Propel is a training initiative to help students obtain workplace skills and certifications for jobs that are in high demand. These accelerated, non-degree Workforce Continuing Education (WCE) courses lead to industry-recognized or state credentials, and most can be completed in three to six months.

WCE offers scholarships that cover the cost of registration, fees, books, course-specific supplies and credentialing exams.

Wake Tech offers an array of accelerated training programs in eight WCE career fields. Browse the programs below, and follow these two easy steps to register.

Registering with NCWorks is not required for training, but those registered are notified about job openings in the area related to their training.

While all Propel training programs prepare students for immediate employment, some may also lead to opportunities to obtain course credit in a Wake Tech degree program or to enroll in a WakeWorks Apprenticeship program. Those programs are in bold below.

Course start dates depend on program pathway. All programs are subject to availability, and more programs will be added in the future.

All students receive access to Wake Tech's Career Services Office to assist with resume writing and job interviewing skills. WCE's education navigators also help students register with Capital Area Workforce Development's NCWorks Career Center for employment assistance.

If you have questions or need further information, email [email protected].

Wake Tech Student Andrew Moreadith

"I went from earning an hourly wage to a living wage, and I couldn't be happier."

Andrew Moreadith

Apartment and Facility Maintenance Technician, Class of 2018

Other workforce training programs

Financial assistance may be available for other workforce training courses that aren't part of Propel. Email [email protected] for more information.

Frequently asked questions

Scholarship awards may vary and cover the cost of registration, fees, books and course-specific equipment and supplies, as well as credentialing exams.


Yes. Some pathways require multiple classes to earn a credential.


Submit an application and any additional information requested by the Workforce Continuing Education Financial Resources and Student Support team.


Yes. The Capital Area Workforce Development's NCWorks Career Center will provide employment planning, job matching and other support services.


Yes. Complete the scholarship application and indicate your program of choice on the "Other" line.


Please contact the WCE Financial Resources and Student Support team at [email protected].