Mountain Gateway Community College (formerly Dabney Lancaster CC) is the economic engine for the region. Multiple programs in highly sought technical fields provide students with skilled, hands-on learning that lead to one- and two-year professional certificates, associate degrees, or industry recognized credentials.
The Ratcliffe Foundation has provided funding to support entrepreneurship and Skilled Trades Training at the Wilson Workforce Center that includes welding, plumbing, HVACR, electrical, carpentry and more at MGCC.