Georgia Power Foundation Invests in Workforce Development

Students engaged in hands-on training for workforce development programs

News Summary

The Georgia Power Foundation has committed over $2.25 million in grants for workforce development across Georgia, supporting educational programs tied to Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE). Since 2020, 65 grants have been awarded, benefiting more than 10,000 students. Noteworthy initiatives include the GIVE Center West’s GIVE RESET program and a new Automotive Institute at Augusta Technical College. Collaborative efforts with organizations like the Atlanta Hawks further enhance career development initiatives, promising a brighter future for many in the Peach State.

Georgia Power Foundation Invests Big in Workforce Development Across the Peach State

In a heartwarming move that speaks volumes about community commitment, the Georgia Power Foundation has recently opened its purse strings to the tune of over $2.25 million across a whopping 65 grants since 2020, all dedicated to boosting workforce development initiatives throughout Georgia. This act of generosity is aimed primarily at enhancing educational programs tied to Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE). It’s all part of a bigger initiative known as “Workforce for Georgia”, which is being managed by The Georgia Foundation for Public Education.

An Educational Movement Making Waves

These grants are more than just a financial boost; they are a lifeline for many school districts, supporting traditional high school programs and the innovative College and Career Academies (CCA). With the programs currently benefiting over 10,000 students statewide, the impact is clear: education is being revolutionized to meet the needs of a changing job market.

Among the standout programs receiving support is the GIVE Center West’s GIVE RESET, which creatively blends engineering education with crucial resilience training for its students. This unique approach equips young minds not only with technical skills but also with the emotional intelligence needed to thrive in today’s challenging workplace environments.

Grant Opportunities for Schools

Schools interested in bolstering their workforce-related programs can submit grant applications seeking up to $50,000. These funding opportunities typically last from 12-18 months, ensuring that educators have the resources they need to inspire and prepare students for their future careers.

Big Steps for Technical Training

One of the most exciting initiatives made possible by these grants is the funding of a brand-new Automotive Institute at Augusta Technical College. With a generous $250,000 grant in hand, this cutting-edge facility is set to open a sprawling 65,000 square feet space dedicated to training over 1,000 skilled technicians each year. This institute will cover a range of engine types, from traditional combustion engines to modern electric, hybrid, and diesel technologies. It’s a significant step forward in training the next generation of automotive experts who will drive the industry forward.

Support for this ambitious project doesn’t stop there; the Jim Hudson Automotive Group and Augusta National Golf Club have each contributed $1 million to bolster the institute’s foundation, with additional backing from the Knox Foundation. It’s heartening to see such community collaboration aimed at providing hands-on training for future professionals.

Georgia Power Teams Up for Empowerment

Shifting gears, the Georgia Power and the Atlanta Hawks collaborated to launch the “True to You Workforce Empowerment” initiative. This program focuses on career development tailored for college students, young professionals, and even veterans. As of 2024, over 300 individuals from various backgrounds have been positively influenced through this initiative.

Empowerment programs have included STEAM events designed for middle school students, serving as a springboard for early interest in technical careers, alongside financial wellness initiatives aimed at helping early-career professionals navigate their financial futures. Additionally, the initiative has provided meaningful internships for HBCU students and hosted a veterans career fair, linking over 35 companies with veterans eager to find employment.

A Commitment to Community Education

The impactful work initiated by the Georgia Power Foundation is a testament to their strong commitment to encouraging education and preparing a capable workforce. The ripple effect of these investments is bound to be felt across communities in Georgia for years to come. With programs like these paving the way for future generations, the peach state may very well be on the precipice of a workforce renaissance, where opportunity abounds for all.