Athens Tech has had a significant presence in Greene County for a number of years since it was located here in 1998. Its aim is to offer core classes, diploma programs, community and continuing education classes, adult literacy services, and career development assistance.
Drawing upon local enrollment from Greene and neighboring counties, the campus sits on over 25 acres and is under a lease agreement with the Development Authority and is up for renewal next year.
Its renewal may largely depend on its ability to design curricula aimed at meeting an ever-increasing need for manufacturing growth in the region.
David Dubois, Economic Development Director for Greene County, recognized the facility’s new “Manufacture Ready” education program with classes starting Aug. 1 at the Greensboro campus.
It is a six-week training module aimed at educating and certifying participants with basic forklift operations, CPR and First Aid, reducing waste and cost savings measures in the workplace, computer literacy and job readiness.
“This training program is unique to our area,” he said. “It is offered free of charge through the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission and offers certifications that are highly employable in manufacturing sectors. It is open and best for those who are currently underemployed or unemployed and have a high school diploma or GED.”
Currently, the program is open to those in several neighboring counties, including a residency in Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Hart, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Taliaferro, Walton or Wilkes counties.
Athens Tech sees it as a great opportunity for developing a new class curriculum at the Greene County campus.
Greene County’s unemployment rate is holding steady at 3 percent and is partially due to a post-COVID economy. Many have chosen not to return to the workforce as evidenced by countless signs advertising for help.
DuBois is hopeful that the manufacturing jobs sector will grow with the introduction of key educational programs addressed to sustain employability.
Georgia’s high-demand industry areas include automotive technology, construction technology, electrical technology, logistical technology, precision manufacturing and welding, and joining technology.
“Having an active and vibrant technology facility here is a great asset for the county,” said Dubois. “Already, employers are looking to hire postgraduates, such as America Remanufacturing Company in Union Point, a re-manufacturer of return goods, and PVC fittings, a manufacturer here of PVC piping. Programs that train and promote employment are paramount because it complements our master economic development plan for the whole county.”
Rabun Neal, vice chairman of the Development Authority, expressed interest in tasking Athens Tech with a plan to best engage its use of the facility with any renewals of the lease.
“We need to reengage discussions with them to be clear with what we want with land usage and grow their value to Greene County,” he said.
Next steps for the committee called for a utilization review meeting with county management. Additionally, the committee hopes to look at other opportunities with land use for the county should a renewal lease not come about. Dubois would not comment as yet on any plans underway.