SRTC celebrates apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week

Kevin Hall, The Moultrie Observer, Ga.
·3 min read

Nov. 10—THOMASVILLE — Southern Regional Technical College (SRTC) will highlight its thriving Apprenticeship Program during National Apprenticeship Week, Nov. 13-17.

The program, emblematic of SRTC's dedication to workforce development through education, seamlessly integrates technical instruction with on-the-job training, the college said in a press release. It solidifies the vital partnership between SRTC and regional business and industry partners, emphasizing the college's commitment to cultivating a skilled and adaptable workforce.

Apprenticeship is more than a training method; it's a step into a promising career, the college said. SRTC's Apprenticeship Program has opened doors for students and recent graduates interested in the chance to explore cutting-edge technology, work with their hands, and earn while they learn. From day one, apprentices earn a competitive salary as they master new skills. SRTC's programs approved for apprenticeships include Automotive Technology, Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and Nursing/Healthcare, and more are on the horizon.

Two federal grants have given students in high demand career paths access to additional funding to help defray the costs of school and work related expenses. The Apprenticeship State Expansion (ASE) grant is a federal grant from the United States Department of Labor, which was awarded to the State of Georgia to promote the creation of Registered Apprenticeship Programs throughout the state. The Technical College System of Georgia's Office of Workforce Development administers the ASE grant. The Apprenticeship for Economic Recovery (AER) grant provides funding for apprenticeships that upskill Georgia's workforce into careers in industries key to the state's economic recovery such as healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation. This grant is federally funded through Georgia's State Fiscal Recovery Fund and allocated to the State of Georgia through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. To date, the program has invested over $295,000 in SRTC apprentices, the college said.

"The program has proven to be an excellent avenue for businesses looking to recruit and retain highly skilled workers," SRTC said in the press release. "Since its inception in 2021, the Apprenticeship Program has attracted the participation of 23 area businesses."

Area hospitals account for the majority of apprenticeship positions, the college said. Eighty-seven SRTC students and graduates have taken advantage of the program at Archbold Memorial Hospital, Colquitt Regional Medical Center, Memorial Hospital and Manor, Miller County Hospital, and Tift Regional Medical Center. In total, the program has served 116 apprentices, including 34 who have completed their apprenticeships and 87 who are current program participants.

"SRTC's Apprenticeship Program aligns with our mission to cultivate a highly skilled and adaptable workforce that can thrive in today's fast-paced business and industry environment," said Amy Carter, SRTC's special assistant to the president. "This program has proven to improve early career productivity through hands-on training, a reduction in recruitment costs, combatting turnover challenges, and cultivation of a more diverse workforce that is reflective of Southwest Georgia's growing community. This investment in education and workforce development is making a tangible impact on the lives of apprentices and the growth of businesses in the region. National Apprenticeship Week celebrates the promise of apprenticeships, and SRTC is proud to be a part of that promise."