GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Samuel Ennis is on the fast track to career success thanks to Wayne Community College’s Operations Management program. With a job already secured before his graduation next spring, he feels prepared to do well in the industry.
Ennis first attended WCC in 2009 before joining the United States Army. After his service ended, he needed to discover what would come next for him. When Ennis eventually learned about WCC’s Operations Management program, it felt like the right fit, and he enrolled.
WCC’s Operations Management program is ideal for those interested in strategy, communication, business, and project management. Operations managers coordinate the activities of business organizations, directing the production, pricing, sales, and distribution of product or services.
The program offers an Associate in Applied Science degree and several certificates. Operations Management courses are taught 100% online.
The College’s faculty and staff are dedicated to helping students successfully transition from their academic journey to a career. WCC Business Administration/Operations Management Instructor Michelle Gay shared a job opportunity with Ennis that he pursued and was hired for, getting a head start in his career field.
Ennis is a high value production operator at West Pharmaceutical Services in Kinston, where he has worked for three months. He processes and sends materials for pharmaceutical companies to use with their products.
“My classes match perfectly with my job,” Ennis said. “After my first two semesters of classes, I walked into the job already knowing what I was doing. It helped prepare me to learn more about my specific role.”
Ennis believes his military background also allows him to relate to certain aspects of his academic program. “Being in the Army really helped me understand what it takes to be in management and how to prioritize what needs to be done,” he explained.
Ennis will graduate in May of 2026 and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree. WCC’s Operations Management program has transfer pathways for graduates to attend East Carolina University, the University of Mount Olive, or North Carolina Wesleyan University, providing Ennis with many options for continuing his education.
With plenty of information to learn in Operations Management at WCC, Ennis would encourage future students to take time and absorb the knowledge available to them through their coursework and instructors. “There’s so much to learn in this program,” he said. “Ask questions, because the instructors are always there to help you.”
Ennis said returning to school after his military career has been an adjustment at times, but he’s grateful for how WCC has helped shape his future. “I think taking time to explore different options has helped me be more thankful for the opportunities I have now,” he shared. “I have really enjoyed the Operations Management program, and I hope more people take advantage of the same opportunity.”
