Wake Tech Business Administration students are making a real-world impact by helping local businesses tackle operational challenges, showcasing their skills and ideas during a capstone event held at the Southern Wake Campus. As part of an experiential learning initiative led by Dr. Lorraine Powers through her Faculty Innovation Fellowship with the Business-Higher Education Forum, 57 students collaborated throughout the Spring semester with local entrepreneurs to deliver tailored business strategies and solutions.
Students in the Business Management Issues course worked in consulting teams, partnering with businesses across industries such as healthcare, fitness, nonprofit services, and media. Each team identified a specific challenge faced by their assigned client and developed comprehensive plans to address it. Projects included efforts like creating email marketing campaigns, enhancing social media engagement, building employee handbooks, and supporting community outreach.
The culmination of the project was a showcase event, where 12 teams presented their strategic recommendations before peers, business clients, and invited guests. The goal was to allow students to demonstrate the practical application of their academic knowledge while gaining invaluable networking and professional experience.
“This opportunity bridges the gap between classroom learning and industry expectations, offering real consulting experience and direct employer engagement,” said Dr. Powers. She emphasized that the project aimed to prepare students for future careers by combining technical knowledge with practical, client-facing experiences.
Local entrepreneurs who participated in the collaboration praised the students’ contributions. For example, Naturally Nectar, a small business offering modified liquids for people with dysphagia, received promotional content, a social media strategy, and outreach resources developed by a student team. Similarly, Shrunk 3D Inc. benefited from marketing support, including newly crafted email drip campaigns.
Students like Spencer Turpin, who worked on marketing scripts for Shrunk 3D, and business owners like Ally Roberts of Naturally Nectar, expressed gratitude for the partnership, noting how the project provided valuable experience and tangible benefits to emerging businesses.
A wide range of businesses participated in the program, including Advance Community Health, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Davis Insurance and Finance, Endurance Fence, Local Time Brewery, Majestic HealthCare, NC Spotless Pros Powerwashing, Positively Apex, Roots with a Purpose, and Rucking Women, among others.
The initiative highlights Wake Tech’s commitment to preparing students for workforce success while supporting the local business community. By connecting classroom learning with real-world application, the program helps both students and entrepreneurs grow stronger together.