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

Posted on January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 by Cynthia Cradduck

(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

Posted on January 13, 2026January 13, 2026 by Cynthia Cradduck

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.

Care Closet Form

Posted on January 8, 2026January 8, 2026 by tbrannen

21st Annual Opportunity Gala to Honor Commissioner Pat Wilson

Posted on January 5, 2026January 5, 2026 by Cynthia Cradduck

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.

Warm Wishes & A Quick Note on Our Holiday Schedule

Posted on December 23, 2025December 23, 2025 by Cynthia Cradduck

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

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

Posted on November 21, 2025November 21, 2025 by Cynthia Cradduck

(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.

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

Posted on October 30, 2025October 30, 2025 by Cynthia Cradduck

(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.

The 5 Spot Launches “Serving Success” Scholarship Program, Awards First $2,000 Scholarship to Savannah Technical College Freshman

Posted on October 29, 2025October 29, 2025 by Cynthia Cradduck

The 5 Spot restaurants, part of the GLGSAV (formerly Gaslight Group) family of restaurants, are proud to announce the launch of Serving Success, a new employee scholarship initiative designed to support educational and career advancement in hospitality and related industries. The inaugural $2,000 scholarship has been awarded to Richmond Hill team member Jordin Watkins. Jordin has been a rockstar team member at The 5 Spot since the restaurant opened in January 2024. He began his journey as a dishwasher and now shines at the host stand thanks to his natural ability to instantly connect with guests.

The Serving Success program is funded by a dill-iciously simple, community-driven idea: $1 from every fried pickle appetizer sold at The 5 Spot restaurants is set aside for the scholarship fund. This ongoing effort turns a popular menu favorite into meaningful opportunities for employees to pursue their dreams.

Watkins, the program’s first recipient, is a Freshman at Savannah Technical College this fall. He is beginning his studies in hospitality and restaurant tourism. His long-term goals include operating restaurants that balance community-centered accessibility with fine dining experiences.

“Working at The 5 Spot has given me a sense of family and a passion for the hospitality industry,” said Jordin. “The support I’ve received here—and now this scholarship—makes me want to give back by creating restaurants where people feel welcome, valued, and excited to return.”

The program was created to recognize and invest in the growth of GLGSAV employees who demonstrate dedication, leadership potential, and a commitment to hospitality. Eligible employees may apply annually for awards ranging from $250 to $2,000, which can be used toward tuition, books, supplies, housing, and other education-related expenses.

“At The 5 Spot, we believe in serving more than just food—we believe in serving opportunity,” said Brian Huskey, owner of GLGSAV and The 5 Spot restaurants. “Jordin’s story is exactly why we launched this scholarship: to help our team members turn their passion into a lifelong career. Every fried pickle sold is more than an appetizer—it’s an investment in our people and our community.”

About Serving Success

The GLGSAV Serving Success Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to current GLG employees pursuing further education in hospitality or related fields. Scholarships are funded by community support, with $1 from every fried pickle appetizer purchased at The 5 Spot restaurants going directly into the scholarship fund.

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GLGSAV (parent company of The 5 Spot restaurants, b. Matthew’s Eatery and Abe’s on Lincoln) is locally owned and operated and is committed to supporting its team, local non-profits and organizations that create a better quality of life for the citizens of the communities where they are located. They are on course to donate more than $30,000 in these communities in 2025.

Savannah Technical College Remembers Former President Dr. Kathy S. Love

Posted on October 10, 2025October 10, 2025 by Cynthia Cradduck

(COASTAL Ga.) The Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech) community remembers the passing of its former President, Dr. Kathy S. Love. Dr. Love dedicated a lifetime to technical education, serving as President of Savannah Technical College from 2009 until March 2024. The College extends its respectful sympathies to Dr. Love’s family, friends, and all those she impacted.

Dr. Ryan W. Foley, current President of Savannah Technical College, offered this statement on her passing: “Dr. Love’s impact on Savannah Technical College and the Technical College System of Georgia cannot be overstated. During her tenure as president, she led with compassion, vision, and a steadfast commitment to student success. Under her leadership, Savannah Tech expanded its programs, strengthened community partnerships, and enhanced its role as a vital contributor to workforce development across our region. She championed access to technical education and believed deeply in the transformative power of opportunity.”

Dr. Love championed key capital projects and academic transitions essential for meeting the demands of Coastal Georgia’s leading industries. Under her leadership, Savannah Tech also earned national recognition from Community College Magazine as one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges of its size in the country.

Key projects completed under her guidance include:

Aviation Training Center: A landmark achievement was breaking ground on the long-awaited Aviation Training Center at the Crossroads Campus. This facility was crucial for delivering the full range of aviation training programs required to support the region’s booming aerospace sector.

Healthcare Education: Dr. Love oversaw the successful transfer of the Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene program, formerly with Armstrong Atlantic State University, to STC. This move was solidified with the construction of a new, state-of-the-art Dental Hygiene Clinic on the main campus, directly responding to the needs of local healthcare providers.

Student Support Facilities: The completion of the Student Enrichment Center stands as a testament to her focus on the whole student. This facility, a joint public/private effort, consolidated vital services including Adult Education, Learning Support, English as a Second Language (ESL), and the Learning Enrichment Center, providing a centralized hub for student success.

Dr. Love’s career within the Technical College System of Georgia, providing leadership at multiple colleges. Before joining Savannah Tech, she served as President of Flint River Technical College from 2002 until 2009. Her previous administrative roles included Vice President of Instructional and Student Services at Middle Georgia Technical College (1994-2001) and Vice President of Administrative Services at South Georgia Technical College (1990-1994).

A dedicated scholar, Dr. Love earned a B.S. in Computer Science and an M.S. in Business Administration from Georgia Southwestern State University, an Education Specialist degree from Columbus State University, and a D.Ed. from Northcentral University. Throughout her career, she also devoted substantial time to active involvement in civic, business, and charitable organizations in the communities she served.

The Savannah Technical College Board of Directors, Foundation Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students express profound gratitude for Dr. Love’s indelible contributions to the institution and the State of Georgia. Her leadership established a powerful foundation for the College’s future success.

The College will share details regarding any memorial or service arrangements as that information becomes available.

Savannah Technical College Foundation Appoints New Trustees and Announces Leadership to Power Student Scholarships and Capital Projects

Posted on September 29, 2025October 7, 2025 by Cynthia Cradduck

(SAVANNAH, Ga.) The Savannah Technical College Foundation Board of Trustees proudly welcomes four distinguished new members and announces its Fiscal Year 2025 Executive Committee leadership, all dedicated to advancing the College’s mission through private investment and community engagement.

As a private, nonprofit entity, the Foundation works independently to raise funds that supplement the college’s state budget, while the college’s Board of Directors advises on academic and administrative policy.

The Foundation’s new members bring a wealth of diverse leadership and expertise:

Brad Brookshire, Chief Executive Officer of Great Oaks Bank, brings significant financial and community banking leadership, which will be vital to the Foundation’s fiscal strategies and regional outreach.

Jennifer Abshire, Founder and CEO of AbshirePR, is a strategic communications expert whose counsel will be invaluable to the Foundation’s outreach efforts.

Jason Marshall, President & CEO of Goodwill Southeast Georgia, brings a proven track record of operational excellence and a deep commitment to community workforce development.

Matt Dowling, Executive Vice President of The Pinyan Company, offers extensive industry insight that will strengthen the Foundation’s strategic investments in the trades and construction fields.

Tiffany Altman, Communications Coordinator for the Effingham County Board of Education and Publisher/Owner of EnjoySavannah, whose deep ties to the local community and expertise in communications will enhance the Foundation’s ability to share its mission and secure support.

David Burkoff (HunterMaclean) will continue his role as Chairman for a second year. Joining him on the FY2025 leadership team are Jesse Dillon (Savannah Economic Development Authority) as Vice Chair, Taylor Mongin (Holland, Bromley, Barnhill & Brett, LLP) as Treasurer, and Kay Ford (Retired, Former Chief Banking Officer for BankSouth) as Past-Chair. Matt Dowling (The Pinyan Company) and Stacy Watson (Georgia Ports Authority) will serve as At Large members.

“The Savannah Technical College Foundation is a vital resource for our community, and the collective expertise of our new members and executive leaders will propel our mission forward,” said Chairman David Burkoff. “This group is committed to investing in our students and our college, knowing that every scholarship and every dollar for a new facility is a direct investment in the future of Coastal Georgia’s workforce.”

The Savannah Technical College Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to outgoing board members Bertice Berry, Lisa Colbert, and Patrick Connell for their exceptional service. Their dedication has been instrumental in securing vital resources, helping to fund scholarships and educational programs that directly enhance student success and strengthen the region’s economy.

Since its establishment in 1984, the Savannah Technical College Foundation has been a cornerstone of local workforce development across Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties. Annually, the Foundation awards approximately $250,000 in scholarships, which are critical in bridging the opportunity gap for students. Through dynamic fundraising and community events, the Foundation provides essential support for state-of-the-art facilities and innovative programs, ensuring Savannah Technical College remains a premier institution for technical education in the region.

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