In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Head of Education for Superhuman (formerly Grammarly) Jenny Maxwell, Rowan-Cabarrus Vice President of Workforce & Technology Dr. Zack Hubbard, and Rowan-Cabarrus Program Chair Associate in Arts, English & ACA Dr. Jenny Billings about how Rowan-Cabarrus Community College is navigating the use of artificial intelligence in the classroom. The conversation explores responsible AI use, academic integrity, and the importance of strengthening critical thinking and communication skills. Guests also discuss the College’s partnership with Grammarly and how AI tools are being used intentionally to support learning rather than replace it, helping students prepare for success in both academic and professional settings.

In this episode of Trail Mix, hosts Carter Wingfield and Tabitha Harry sit down with Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol Spalding for a candid conversation about leadership, vision and the lasting impact of education. Dr. Spalding reflects on her unexpected path into higher education, her approach to leading a growing college and why keeping students at the center of every decision matters. The discussion explores workforce development, community partnerships, and the belief that education is not an expense, but an investment that strengthens individuals and communities.

In this episode of Trail Mix, Carter Wingfield and co-host Tabitha Harry sit down with Art & Design Program Chair Bailey Winkler and Art & Design student Lance Brush for a look at how creativity takes shape at Rowan-Cabarrus. The conversation explores the Bridge Gallery, hands-on student projects and the new Creative Currents initiative that brings artists, musicians and writers to campus. Bailey and Lance share how community, mentorship and real-world experiences help students grow as artists and designers. They also highlight the many ways art and design connect people, spark curiosity and open doors for students as they discover their own creative path.

In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Business Services Account Manager and Apprenticeship Director Kerry Motley, Shop Manager Austin Shrewsbury from Martin Marietta, and Apprentice Josh Baker about how Rowan-Cabarrus apprenticeships are preparing the next generation of skilled workers. Through a model that blends paid, hands-on training with classroom instruction, apprentices gain thousands of hours of real-world experience while employers strengthen their workforce. Hear how apprenticeships create meaningful opportunities, support local industry, and connect students to long-term career success.

In this episode of Trail Mix, Carter Wingfield talks with Nursing Program Chair Dr. Emily Fink and nursing students Terry Portis and Andrea Nellis about how Rowan-Cabarrus is expanding access to nursing education. With new evening cohorts, multiple start points and flexible pathways, the College is meeting students where they are and preparing the next generation of skilled, compassionate nurses. Hear how these opportunities are helping students balance life, work and education while advancing their careers in healthcare.

In this episode of Trail Mix, host Carter Wingfield talks with Student Activities Coordinators Amber King and Jaworski Sartin and Student Government Association President Jalil Agovic about how Student Life and Leadership helps students get connected and stay engaged at Rowan-Cabarrus. From campus events and student clubs to leadership opportunities and community-building experiences, discover how involvement beyond the classroom fosters growth, confidence and belonging.

In this episode of Trail Mix, Carter Wingfield talks with Executive Director of Transfer Success and Higher Education Partnerships Jenn Gardner Selby and Director of Advising, TRIO and First-Year Experience Amy Weatherman about how Rowan-Cabarrus Community College helps students transfer seamlessly to four-year universities. From articulation agreements and guaranteed scholarships to personalized advising and university mentor programs, learn how the College’s transfer pathways are helping students take the next step toward their goals. Whether you’re planning ahead or just beginning your journey, discover how Rowan-Cabarrus can help you navigate forward to transfer success.

In this episode of Trail Mix, Carter Wingfield and Tabitha Harry sit down with QEP Director Deanna Dixon and Program Chair of Associate in Arts, English and ACA Dr. Jenny Billings to talk about Rowan-Cabarrus Community College’s Quality Enhancement Plan, Forward Together: Pathways to Success. Designed to help students from day one, this initiative reimagines the ACA-122 course and introduces pathways that strengthen belonging, learning, transfer and career readiness. Hear how Forward Together equips students with the tools, resources and confidence they need to succeed at Rowan-Cabarrus and beyond.