savannah technical college

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

Posted on 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.

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 

Posted on 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. 

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.

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

Posted on 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.

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

Posted on 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. 

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 Peace Officer Academy Commends Graduates at Completion Ceremony

Posted on by Cynthia Cradduck

Congratulations to the latest graduates of Savannah Technical College’s (Savannah Tech), the premier provider of career-ready technical education and workforce development in Coastal Georgia, Peace Officer Academy!

These graduates successfully completed the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Basic Law Enforcement Training Course, making them eligible to serve as state-certified peace officers. 

Each graduate underwent an intensive 18-week program combining classroom instruction in criminal justice principles with hands-on law enforcement training. This technical certificate equips students with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation needed to excel in careers across municipal, county, and state law enforcement agencies.

Six of the seven graduates from this cohort have already secured positions with local and state agencies, a testament to the program’s strong connections within the law enforcement community.

The next cohort of the Peace Officer Academy begins training in August with ongoing enrollment opportunities available now. Prospective students interested in this highly respected program are encouraged to apply early. Financial assistance, including the HOPE Career Grant, is available to those who qualify.

For additional information about the Academy or to schedule an interview, contact the Savannah Technical College at 912-443-5191 or visit www.savannahtech.edu/PeaceOfficerAcademy.

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.