BSH, college share state award

Craven Community College and BSH Home Appliances in New Bern received the first distinguished partners for excellence award from the N.C. Community College System, according to a release.

"Our partnership with Craven Community College is a long-lasting relationship which has enabled us to provide economic opportunities for many citizens in eastern North Carolina," said Clemens Schaller, BSH's executive vice president and chief technical officer.

"As a major employer in Craven County, we are faced with the same dilemmas that many of our local industries face -- the lack of a trained workforce to enable companies like ours to be successful."

Schaller pointed out that BSH and the college have worked together to train BSH workers by developing apprenticeship programs and specialized courses for company associates from the shop floor to the management office.

"The award is proof of what can be done when two entities come together for a common goal and purpose," Schaller said.

BSH also was recognized for its contributions to the college, including providing laptop computers to students in the Craven Early College high school and serving as a Business Leadership Circle member of the CCC Foundation.

The award was the latest in a series of honors that Craven's partnership with BSH has received from state officials. Gov. Mike Easley and the N.C. Department of Labor have also recognized the school and company.

The award was presented to Schaller and CCC President Scott Ralls at a Nov. 17 ceremony in Raleigh.