Wiregrass partners with local businesses for apprenticeship programs

Wiregrass Georgia Technical College is proud to sponsor registered apprenticeships with local industries. Wiregrass recently sponsored apprenticeships with Midway Truck and American Truck Parts in Douglas in conjunction with the college’s Diesel Maintenance Technician program and Valdosta Toyota in Valdosta.

Two of the students in the Diesel Maintenance Technician program, Zane Beck and Jacob Mancil, are enjoying paid apprenticeships at these two long-serving Douglas diesel repair facilities. “We have seen great results from the apprenticeship program with Wiregrass, and look forward to participating in the future, “shared Kurt Deen, General Manager of Midway Truck. Under the apprenticeship agreement sponsored by Wiregrass, these two individuals will receive regular pay increases at their respective companies as they complete required on-the-job training along with their classes at Wiregrass.

Shentina Strange, an Automotive Technology program student from the Valdosta Campus, is now getting the work experience at Valdosta Toyota. Toby Heard, Wiregrass Automotive Instructor shared this about his student, “Shentina started the automotive diploma with a great attitude and willingness to learn. Her good work ethics led to a career at the local Toyota dealership through the apprenticeship program.”

Registered apprenticeships are easy ways for manufacturers and local companies to fill employment gaps in conjunction with Wiregrass training opportunities. Students earn as they learn and progress from apprentices to qualified masterclass technicians. Apprenticeships build loyalty between companies and their employees, while incentivizing individuals to engage in training in high-demand fields. Wiregrass is currently exploring apprenticeship opportunities in the Automotive and Diesel Mechanic fields, along with Industrial Systems and Machine Tool, but any program of study can be tied to an apprenticeship.

If any business or industry is interested in learning more about the Apprenticeship program, contact Michael Williams, Dean of Academic Affairs, at 229-333-2100. Wiregrass will host Free Application Day on all campuses, November 9. Applicants who apply in person on any of the Wiregrass Campuses will have their application fee waived. Spring Semester classes start January 9, 2018. For more information, visit wiregrass.edu.