VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - Wiregrass Technical College’s apprenticeship program blends classroom instruction with on-the-job learning, allowing companies to build a stronger, more sustainable pipeline of employees.

For apprentices, it means earning a paycheck while learning and entering a high-demand, high-wage career without incurring college debt.

Wiregrass says about 94% of students in the program stay with their company, 89% stay at least five years. This ensures steady growth and reliable employment for both students and employers.

Some students start out making $25 per hour in their career before graduation.

Michael Williams, Wiregrass Executive Vice President said, “That’s $50,000 a year for an 18-year-old fresh out of high school. That’s reason enough to stay in this region. The sky is the limit from there. There are good-paying jobs in South Georgia now, and the apprenticeship model is the best way to get there.”

Currently, Wiregrass Apprentice Program partners with more than 100 industries across 11 counties in South Georgia.

Apprenticeship programs are offering South Georgia students and industry leaders a solution — cutting the cost of college while providing hands-on training to long-term careers. Here’s how students are helping fill critical workforce needs across the region.

Bill Meli, Wiregrass Apprenticeship Coordinator said, “So it greatly helps our South Georgia economy, and it helps those apprentices stay in South Georgia.”

For Paramedicine student Abbilyn Burke, the apprenticeship program has opened the door to her dream career.

She said, “I fell in love with it that very minute, and from then on I knew that’s what I wanted to do.”

Burke discovered her passion for paramedics after a rescue while working as a lifeguard. Now, in Wiregrass’ paramedicine program, she’s gaining classroom instruction along with real-life training.

“By my first case, I knew this is what I was made for,” she said.

For businesses and industry leaders interested in partnership, contact Bill Meli at (229) 333-2100 ext. 4837 or email [email protected].

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