The Manufacturing Institute and Savannah Technical College Celebrate Landmark Heroes MAKE America Triple Cohort Graduation

(FORT STEWART, Ga.) Savannah Technical College, in collaboration with The Manufacturing Institute’s Heroes MAKE America (HMA) initiative, celebrated a milestone achievement in workforce development, honoring graduates from three distinct cohorts of HMA’s SkillBridge training programs. This ceremony marked a significant first for the initiative, as it included the inaugural graduating class of the Fast Track Automation & Robotics program, and graduates from the Fast Track Logistics and Fast Track Airframe & Powerplant Prep (A&P Prep) tracks. 

The graduation represents more than the completion of a curriculum; it signifies the next step in transition for service members, helping them move from military duty to civilian careers. These graduates have translated their service, training, and experience into high-demand technical skills, directly addressing the workforce needs of the Coastal Empire’s booming manufacturing and aviation sectors. 

Launched in April of this year, graduates of the new Fast Track A&P Prep course are the third cohort to complete the intensive six-week course designed to fast-track participants toward earning their FAA Aviation Mechanic certification. Their entry into the workforce comes at a critical time, providing essential talent for aviation giants like Gulfstream Aerospace. Alongside them, graduates from the Fast Track Automation & Robotics program are now prepared to step into roles supporting advanced manufacturing facilities, while Fast Track Logistics graduates are ready to manage the complex supply chains that drive the regional economy. 

“These programs are a dynamic response to the evolving demands of American manufacturing,” said Ryan W. Foley, President of Savannah Technical College. “Our partnership with Heroes MAKE America ensures service members and their families have access to cutting-edge training and opens opportunities for these folks right here at home.” 

“The Manufacturing Institute congratulates all the students who will start the New Year with life-changing skills and certifications for in-demand careers,” said Amy Thomas, National Director of Heroes MAKE America. “This milestone graduation reflects the strength of our partnership with Savannah Technical College and the potential for transitioning service members to start their second career in manufacturing. We wish them well are excited to welcome them into the manufacturing workforce.” 

For many of these transitioning service members, this program bridges the gap between military experience and a clear civilian career path. The training provides not only technical proficiency but also renewed confidence, direction, and a sense of professional belonging in the civilian sector. By validating military skills with industry-recognized certifications, the program removes uncertainty from the post-service career transitions. It eliminates guesswork for employers, giving them confidence in a candidate’s readiness from day one. The success of these cohorts highlights the critical role industry partnerships and donor support play in building the skilled talent manufacturing needs. Through these investments, partners help prepare job-ready veterans whose skills strengthen the manufacturing workforce.

ABOUT THE MANUFACTURING INSTITUTE 

The Manufacturing Institute builds and strengthens the manufacturing workforce of today and tomorrow. As the 501(c)(3) nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, the MI serves as a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. Heroes MAKE America, an initiative of the Manufacturing Institute, collaborates with manufacturing leaders to strengthen the pipeline from military service to manufacturing careers. This program supports military hiring strategies by connecting manufacturers with the broader military community through accelerated certification training programs, hiring events, facility tours, career fairs, and other direct engagement opportunities. For more information, visit https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/heroes-make-america/training-program/.  

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.

Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.

Savannah Technical College Names Top 2026 Faculty and Student Leaders 

Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) has announced its four top honorees for 2026, selecting a slate of student and faculty leaders who represent the highest standard of technical and adult education. The college named Javiera Scott as the Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) winner, Stephanie Grant as the Rick Perkins Award (RPA) winner, Abimbola “BeBe” Ojelabi as the EAGLE delegate, and Dr. Cheryl Cale as the Adult Education Teacher of the Year. 

These four individuals will represent the college at regional and statewide competitions, advocating for the critical role technical education plays in workforce development and economic mobility in the Coastal Empire. 

Javiera Scott, the 2026 GOAL winner, was selected as the Student of the Year for her academic excellence and leadership potential. The GOAL program is the first of its kind in the nation and honors excellence in technical education. Scott will serve as a spokesperson for technical education, sharing her story of how hands-on training leads to high-demand careers. 

Stephanie Grant, Department Head and Instructor for Early Childhood Care and Education, was named the 2026 Rick Perkins Award winner. The award recognizes technical college instructors who make significant contributions to technical education through innovation and leadership. Grant will represent Savannah Technical College in the statewide competition for technical instructor of the year. 

The college also celebrated excellence within its Adult Education department, which provides vital pathways for students seeking high school equivalency and literacy education. 

Abimbola “BeBe” Ojelabi was named the 2026 EAGLE (Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education) delegate. This program celebrates adult learners who demonstrate superior achievement in adult education classes. Ojelabi was selected for her powerful ability to articulate the impact of literacy education on her life and career goals. She will now advocate for adult education at the state level, representing the thousands of Georgians who utilize these programs to transform their futures. 

Dr. Cheryl Cale was honored as the 2026 Adult Education Teacher of the Year. A 40-year veteran of education, Dr. Cale currently serves as an HSE Instructor and Instructional Lead at the Effingham Campus. Her colleagues selected her for her deep commitment to student success and her expertise in guiding adult learners through the challenges of earning their high school equivalency. Dr. Cale’s career spans early childhood to higher education administration, bringing a wealth of experience to her classroom where she prepares students for the next step in their careers. 

The selection of these four winners underscores Savannah Technical College’s commitment to servant leadership and its 10-Year Master Plan to expand access to workforce training. By honoring achievement at every level—from adult literacy to technical specialization—the college reinforces its mission as the region’s primary pipeline for skilled professionals in industries like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and logistics. 

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.

Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.

21st Annual Opportunity Gala to Honor Commissioner Pat Wilson

The Savannah Technical College Foundation will host its 21st Annual Opportunity Gala on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026. The event begins at 6 p.m. at Eckburg Auditorium, located on the Savannah Technical College campus at 5717 White Bluff Road. This year’s event honors Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson for his leadership in securing the state’s position as the top destination for business and job creation.

Proceeds from the evening directly fund the college’s mission to provide rigorous, hands-on training for high-demand careers. While Georgia Department of Economic Development’s work helps to bring major employers to Georgia, Savannah Technical College serves as the critical engine that prepares the talent those industries require. The gala celebrates this connection between economic strategy and the individual students who will power the region’s future.

The evening offers more than a celebration; it provides tangible proof of the college’s impact. Culinary Arts students will showcase their skills throughout the dinner service, demonstrating the high-level training they receive daily. A curated pre-dinner exhibit will allow guests to experience the college’s diverse technical programs firsthand, offering a clear view of how their contributions translate into skilled professionals entering the local workforce.

Sponsorship opportunities are open for organizations ready to align their brand with workforce development and regional growth. By sponsoring a table or purchasing tickets, community partners do not just attend an event; they actively remove barriers for students seeking to transform their lives through education. The support ensures that over 13,000 students annually have access to the equipment, instruction, and opportunities necessary to succeed in fields ranging from aviation to healthcare.

Community members and business leaders can secure sponsorships or individual tickets by visiting www.savannahtech.edu/gala or contacting Robert Grant at rgrant@savannahtech.edu.

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.

Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.

Warm Wishes & A Quick Note on Our Holiday Schedule

Across all of our campuses, we want to send the warmest holiday wishes to our entire Savannah Technical College family.
 
It has been an incredible year of hard work and student success, and we hope this upcoming break brings you well-deserved time to rest, recharge, and enjoy special moments with those who mean the most to you.
 
Please note our holiday schedule:
All Savannah Tech campuses will close early today at 3:00 p.m. and will reopen on January 5.
 
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a bright, healthy start to the new year. We look forward to seeing everyone back on campus in 2026!
 
Happy Holidays
 

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.

Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.

Savannah Technical College and Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America Commemorate Landmark Apprenticeship Partnership with Official Signing Ceremony

(BRYAN COUNTY, Ga.) Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech), the premier provider of career-ready technical education and workforce development in Coastal Georgia, and Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) celebrated a major career development milestone today with the formal signing ceremony for their new apprenticeship partnership.
 
During the ceremony, seven apprentices formally signed their enrollment agreements, symbolizing the start of their journeys toward Industrial Maintenance Systems Technology diplomas. The successful completion of the course will result in them joining HMGMA’s Equipment Maintenance Department, solidifying their pathway into one of the most advanced manufacturing environments in the Southeast.
 
“This partnership with Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America represents a landmark achievement in our mission to provide career-focused education that meets the needs of our community and industry partners,” said Dr. Ryan W. Foley, President of Savannah Tech. “By integrating rigorous academic instruction with paid, on-the-job training, we are creating a direct and accessible pathway for our students to secure high-demand, high-skill careers right here in Coastal Georgia. This program exemplifies the power of collaboration in building a robust and skilled workforce for the future.”
 
The apprenticeship program provides students with invaluable experience in electrical and mechanical systems, including hydraulics, pneumatics and gearing. Apprentices spend three days per week on-site at HMGMA and two days in the classroom. Each participant is also paired with a mentor to guide their professional development.
 
“At HMGMA, we are building more than cars, we are building Meta Pros,” said Brent Stubbs, HMGMA Chief Administrative Officer. “The expanded partnership with Savannah Tech, utilizing the USDOL apprenticeship model, is helping us create the technical workforce we need with the robotics and automation skills necessary to support the renaissance of American manufacturing happening in Southeast Georgia.”
 
Apprentices begin their paid training at $20.40 an hour, with scheduled increases every six months. Upon completion next year, they will transition into full-time positions at HMGMA’s Equipment Maintenance Department, supporting technical operations at the plant’s Stamp, Weld, Paint and General Assembly shops.
 
The next apprenticeship is planned for 2026. Application details will be announced this spring.
 
About HMGMA
Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) is Hyundai Motor Group’s first dedicated Electrified Vehicle mass-production plant located in Bryan County, GA. The new plant boasts a highly connected, automated, and flexible manufacturing system, which organically connects all elements of the EV ecosystem to realize customer value. The Georgia facility will become an intelligent manufacturing plant. All processes of production—order collection, procurement, logistics and production—are optimized utilizing AI and data. The innovative manufacturing system also helps create a human-centered work environment with robots assisting human workers.

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.

Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.

Savannah Technical College Receives Grant from Governor’s Office of Highway Safety to Enhance Driver Safety Education 

(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech), the premier provider of career-ready technical education and workforce development in Coastal Georgia, has been awarded a $181,061.82 grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) to expand and strengthen its driver safety education program through The Coastal Georgia Center for Driver Safety. Now entering its fifth year, this funding will support critical initiatives aimed at reducing distracted and alcohol-impaired driving among youth and young adults in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham and Liberty counties. 

The grant will enable Savannah Tech to continue building on its proven distracted driver and alcohol-impaired training programs, utilizing advanced virtual reality simulators and Fatal Vision impairment goggles. These immersive educational tools provide students with firsthand experience of the dangers associated with unsafe driving behaviors. The program is designed to serve high school students, young adult drivers and parents across the four-county region through school-based sessions and community events. 

“Innovative projects like this are designed with the intent for Georgia and our nation to reach the realistic goal of zero traffic deaths by the middle of this century,” said Allen Poole, Director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. “Each life saved on our roads is one less family that will have to live with the pain of losing a loved one whose life was taken from them in a traffic crash that was completely preventable.” 

“We are honored to continue our partnership with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in addressing one of the most pressing safety concerns facing our young drivers,” said Atina Brantley, MS, Project Director of Driver’s Education and Safety at Savannah Tech. “Through evidence-based education and hands-on learning experiences, we are empowering students to make safer choices behind the wheel and creating lasting behavioral change that will protect lives in our community.” 

During FY2025, Savannah Technical College’s Driver Safety Program exceeded all established objectives through the effective implementation of innovative instructional tools and community outreach initiatives. Utilizing Virtual Reality (VR) Simulators, the program set a goal to educate 5,000 teen drivers on the dangers of distracted and impaired driving and successfully reached 5,620 participants. Through the integration of Fatal Vision Kits, the goal was to engage 2,500 students in awareness activities highlighting the risks associated with distracted and drowsy driving, with an actual participation total of 8,468 students. In addition, the program planned to distribute 5,000 traffic safety materials to local high schools and community events, achieving an exceptional total of 21,258 materials distributed. 

These outcomes reflect the program’s sustained commitment to advancing traffic safety education, fostering responsible driving behaviors, and exceeding performance targets through strategic partnerships and innovative educational approaches. 

During the upcoming grant year, which runs from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026, Savannah Tech aims to educate 5,000 teen drivers using VR simulators, engage 2,500 students with Fatal Vision event kits, and promote 25 monthly media messages focused on driver safety. 

The Coastal Georgia Center for Driver Safety partners with local high schools, Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools, Parent University, and Safe Kids Savannah to deliver comprehensive driver safety education. The program emphasizes a two-generational approach, educating both teens and parents to reinforce safe driving behaviors at home. 

The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety’s mission is to educate the public on safe driving behaviors and implement highway safety campaigns and programs designed to reduce crashes and eliminate fatalities and injuries on Georgia roads. For more information, visit www.gahighwaysafety.org. 

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.

Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.

Savannah Technical College Welcomes New Board Members Elizabeth Bennett and Jason Zdunich

(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech), the premier provider of career-ready technical education and workforce development in Coastal Georgia, announced the appointment of Elizabeth Bennett and Jason Zdunich to its Board of Directors during a swearing-in ceremony conducted by Judge Roxanne E. Formey of the Juvenile Court of Chatham County. Both members were appointed by the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) state board and bring extensive experience in education and leadership to guide the College’s mission of delivering excellence in technical education.

Bennett currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction and District Athletic Director for Bryan County Schools. She holds a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from Valdosta State University and brings over two decades of experience in education, including roles as principal, assistant principal, and teacher. Her achievements include being named Georgia Assistant Principal of the Year in 2017 and receiving the Jim Puckett Outstanding Educator Award in 2023.

Zdunich serves as Assistant Manager for Military and Community Relations at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, where he creates educational partnerships with technical colleges and universities across Southeast Georgia. A retired military officer with over 30 years of leadership experience, he holds a Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from the University of Louisville and has extensive background in training, project management, and operations.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Elizabeth and Jason to our Board of Directors,” said Dr. Ryan W. Foley, President of Savannah Tech. “Their extensive experience in both K-12 and higher education, coupled with their deep understanding of workforce needs in our region, will be invaluable. These appointments strengthen our commitment to providing world-class technical education that prepares our students for high-demand careers and supports the economic vitality of Coastal Georgia.”

During the ceremony, Savannah Technical College leadership also recognized retired Colonel Pete Hoffman for his dedicated service to the board, presenting him with a commemorative painting in appreciation of his contributions to Savannah Tech’s mission.

The appointments reflect Savannah Technical College’s commitment to maintaining the highest standard of excellence in technical education. Bennett and Zdunich join a distinguished board of community and industry leaders who facilitate the delivery of programs and services that meet local industry and community needs throughout Coastal Georgia.

The Board of Directors meets monthly to advise the college president and TCSG State Board on local workforce development needs and advocate for issues supporting Georgia’s technical education system.

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.

Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.

Rock-N-Rollment Open House Was a Hit! 🎸🎉

Wow, what an amazing time we had at our ‘Rock-N-Rollment Open House’! The energy was electric, and we loved seeing so many of you there. 🤘

We made enrolling super easy with one-on-one advisor chats, on-the-spot registration, and helpful financial aid guidance to get you set for success.

But that wasn’t all—it wouldn’t be “rock-n-roll” without some live music to keep things groovy! 🎶 Plus, we served up some delicious food (on the house, of course) to add to the festive vibes.

Thanks to everyone who showed up and made it such a memorable event. We’re already looking forward to rocking out with you again soon! 🥳🎤

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) is the premier provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, offering a comprehensive range of nearly 150 market-driven programs, preparing students for high-demand careers including Aviation Technology, Cybersecurity, Health Sciences, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Automation & Robotics, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Public Services and more. With campuses in Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty Counties, Savannah Tech serves more than 13,000 credit and non-credit students with a variety of pathways to success, including dual enrollment programs for high school students and specialized support services for military veterans and their families. Beyond academics, Savannah Tech is an economic and community development partner, collaborating with industry leaders to provide customized training programs, assessment services, and continuing education opportunities. For more information, visit www.savannahtech.edu.

Savannah Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit. Questions about the accreditation of Savannah Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Savannah Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.