May 23rd, 2024 – 11:20 AM

Georgia Northwestern Technical College –

Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) and Floyd County Prison have partnered to offer offenders training as Class B commercial truck drivers and welders, aiding their employment prospects post-release.

A recent graduation ceremony celebrated the first group of Class B CDL graduates, offenders who earned their GED® diplomas, and a new cohort of welding graduates. Four inmates completed the CDL program and six finished the welding class. The CDL curriculum, taught at GNTC’s Polk County Campus, matches that of other students and includes online theory and practical driving training.

Judy Roddenberry, a GNTC Commercial Truck Driving instructor, emphasized the program’s potential to positively impact offenders’ futures. GNTC assists with job placement upon program completion.

GNTC’s Mobile Welding Lab facilitated the welding course at the prison. Nine inmates received GED® diplomas. GNTC and the prison have previously collaborated on welding, GED diplomas, and business skills programs.

This initiative aligns with Gov. Brian Kemp’s efforts to help former offenders reintegrate into society. Senate Bill 218 supports former offenders in obtaining identification and proof of completed training.

Over 200 offenders applied for the welding class, but the lab’s six booths limited participation, said Angela Berch, GNTC’s vice president of Economic Development. The program, which started in 2020, uses grant-funded Mobile Welding Labs for training.

The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) identifies commercial truck driving and welding as high-demand fields, highlighting the importance of these programs. GNTC, supported by various partners, aims to continue these educational opportunities.

Lisa Shaw, GNTC’s vice president of Adult Education, praised the partnership’s success and future potential, recognizing the achievements of the graduates and encouraging them to persist in their efforts.