Jun 3, 2026
Welcome to Chatter with BNC, Business North Carolina's weekly podcast, serving up interviews with some of the Tar Heel State's most interesting people.
On today's episode, Ben Kinney speaks with Dr. Chris Harrington, State Director of ApprenticeshipNC, North Carolina's state apprenticeship agency. Dr. Harrington breaks down what registered apprenticeship really is: an employer-driven model where apprentices are hired, paid from day one, and trained through structured on-the-job learning, classroom instruction, and mentorship, earning a nationally recognized credential. He explains why employers can no longer simply consume talent but must build it, how programs span more than 1,400 occupations beyond the trades, and how ApprenticeshipNC guides businesses at no cost. They also explore community college group sponsors, turnaround times, and Chris's dream concert: Woodstock.