Enhancing Student Recruitment for Engineering Technology Programs: Leveraging Social Media and SEO Strategies in Alignment with America's Cutting-Edge Initiative

This paper examines innovative strategies for enhancing student recruitment in engineering technology programs by leveraging social media platforms and strategic SEO techniques.Using platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, and a dedicated website portal, these methods were implemented starting in 2023 and have led to a notable increase in student enrollment for the ACE program over the subsequent year (2023-2024).The analysis reveals a positive correlation between the growth in followers and engagement across these platforms and the rise in student recruitment and attendance, demonstrating a synergistic effect.This study highlights the effectiveness of integrating digital marketing strategies with SEO to improve recruitment outcomes, aligning with the goals of the America's Cutting Edge (ACE) initiative.Launched in 2022 through a partnership between North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and the Department of Defense, ACE aims to revitalize U.S. manufacturing with a focus on the machine tool industry.By advancing technological innovation and developing a skilled workforce, ACE contributes to strengthening America's global manufacturing competitiveness.