Mission & Purpose
The New Hanover Healthcare Career Partnership is a powerful example of what’s possible when a deeply collaborative team unites around a shared vision. Fueled by a $22.3 million grant from the New Hanover Community Endowment, the initiative thrives on the collective commitment of education, workforce and business leaders who are breaking down silos to solve complex challenges together.
The partnership aims to strengthen the region’s healthcare system by investing in local talent. By working across sectors and embracing a community-first mindset, the initiative is expanding career pathways in healthcare, improving training and retention, and building a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals to meet the growing healthcare needs of southeastern North Carolina. None of this would be possible without the trust, innovation and shared problem-solving of an extraordinary team united by purpose.
Partners Involved
This collaborative initiative includes:
New Hanover County Schools – Building early exposure and dual-enrollment pathways for high school students interested in healthcare careers.
Cape Fear Community College – Expanding certification and training programs to meet growing demand for critical healthcare roles.
University of North Carolina Wilmington – Preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals through nationally accredited undergraduate and graduate programs, with both classroom and field-based learning experiences.
Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce – Convening employers and industry leaders to align educational programs with local workforce needs and support retention efforts.
The Endowment – Providing visionary funding and guidance through its four pillars: community development, education, social and health equity, and public safety. By supporting this initiative, the Endowment is helping build a stronger, more equitable healthcare workforce and creating long-term solutions that improve well-being and opportunity across southeastern North Carolina.
How the Community Benefits
Better Access to Care for Everyone
Faster, More Reliable Treatment
Fully staffed hospitals and clinics mean shorter wait times and better outcomes — even for healthy individuals facing unexpected emergencies.
Lower Healthcare Costs
Reducing staff shortages helps control medical costs and insurance premiums for individuals, families and employers.
Healthier Schools, Workplaces and Families
Improved access to care leads to fewer sick days, better mental health and stronger support for children and aging parents.
Stronger Workforce & Business Climate
Workforce Stability
Hospitals and private practices benefit from a steady pipeline of trained professionals, reducing turnover and lowering hiring costs.
Job Creation
Healthcare is one of the region’s fastest-growing employment sectors, supporting roles in both care delivery and education.
Growing a High-Wage Industry
These career paths offer stability, competitive wages and opportunities for advancement — all within New Hanover County.
Equity & Inclusion
Career Access for All
Underserved and underrepresented groups gain new pathways into stable, meaningful careers in healthcare.
Improved Community Health Outcomes
A more diverse healthcare workforce leads to culturally competent, accessible care that better serves all members of the community.
Regional Leadership & Replication
Model for the State and Nation
This initiative demonstrates how K-12 schools, higher education, business and philanthropy can work together to solve complex challenges. Wilmington is emerging as a hub for innovation in healthcare workforce development.
Policy Impact
Success in this region can influence how North Carolina — and other states — approach workforce and education funding in the future.