Robbie Taylor of Rockingham has joined the Richmond Community College team as a new Workforce and Economic Development Director.

His first order of business is responding to would-be nursing students who need to pass the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) test in order to be admitted to a coveted spot in the program.

“We’re developing a TEAS test prep class for potential nursing students,” said Taylor. “It’s not open for registration yet, but our goal is to have it ready in January and start classes in February. We’ll post on the RCC website and advertise to let the community know when registration opens.”

Teachers with expertise in each area of testing will guide the class.

“There will be English, math and science teachers leading the classes, so that students know they’re getting an expert in each field of study,” Taylor said.

There will also be online portions of the class, as well as practice testing.

“When the class is done, we’re going to offer a TEAS test to the students while the information is still fresh in their minds,” he said. “The testing price will be at no extra charge, it will be included with the price of the class.”

Taylor said he’s going to be able to chart the percentage of students who score well on the TEAS test after taking the class, and compare the numbers with the scores of students who don’t take the class.

“This will be a unique program,” he said. “I’m hoping students respond well to it, and it takes off.”

In addition to preparing students for the TEAS, Taylor said the Hamlet-based college has agreed to count the class as point credits for those hoping to enter the nursing program.

“I even took the TEAS myself in order to help develop this program to the highest possible standards,” he said. “It’s not an easy test.”

In addition to this project, Taylor is currently working to create a workshop for instructors.

As part of the Workforce and Economic Development team, Taylor also searches out the needs of local employers in Richmond County.

“We tailor classes to meet the demands of employers and the community,” he said. “For example, we have found a need for computer skills training, welding and electrical classes. When we learn what skills people need to find jobs in this community, we develop classes to meet those needs.”

Aside from skilled labor classes, the team also develops curriculum for personal enrichment.

“Some of those are self defense for females, ministry development, jewelry making and culinary classes,” he said.

Taylor is a graduate of RCC’s criminal justice program. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Mount Olive College, and a master’s degree from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke, along with a master’s degree from the University of Louisville.

He worked with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office for 13 years, and has taught in RCC’s Basic Law Enforcement Training program for the past three years.

He can be contacted at rltaylor@richmondcc.edu.

Staff Writer Kelli Easterling can be reached at 910-997-3111, ext. 18, or by email at keasterling@heartlandpublications.com.