The need is critical for a CSRA-skilled workforce in the automotive industry. Businesses are continuing to step up to the plate with donations for Augusta Tech’s Automotive Institute to accomplish the goal.
Just this week, another $350,000 was given to support the program’s future. Once completed, this new training center will provide workforce training for more than 1,000 skilled technicians each year in the high-demand automotive and auto body fields.
Georgia Power Foundation awarded $250,000 to support Augusta Technical College’s training center which when complete, will provide workforce training for more than 1,000 skilled technicians each year in the high-demand automotive and auto body fields.
“We are excited to support Augusta Technical College’s Automotive Institute, which will play a crucial role in developing the skilled workforce needed to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving automotive industry,” said Kerry Bridges, Region Executive at Georgia Power. “Investing in education and workforce development is essential for the continued growth and prosperity of our community, and we are proud to be a part of this transformative initiative.”
Adding to the effort, Malcolm Cunningham Automotive Group has pledged $100,000.
“As the owner of Malcolm Cunningham Automotive Group, Inc., I am proud to support Augusta Technical College and its dedication to empowering students and building a brighter future for our community and businesses,” said Malcolm Cunningham.
At 65,000 square feet, the Automotive Institute will dwarf the College’s current 10,000 square feet occupied by the automotive program and help to fill a critical gap in the job market.
In November 2023, the Augusta Tech facility was named the Jim Hudson Automotive Institute in recognition of a $1 million gift from the Jim Hudson Automotive Group and will be located on the site of the former Johnson Cadillac at 1122 Walton Way with the first classes scheduled to begin this fall. Augusta Tech also received $1 million each from the Augusta National Golf Club and the Knox Foundation to acquire the property.
ATC currently offers a diploma and numerous technical certificates of credit programs in automotive technology. These offerings will be expanded to include more programs in the new institute, including auto body and collision, and light, medium, and heavy diesel. Augusta Tech also plans to add automotive-industry-specific classes to its Associated of Applied Science degrees in the School of Business. The institute will also provide noncredit training and upskilling through the College’s Division of Economic Development.
Ironically, this whirlwind of development was led by Dr. Whirl and his team and his Farewell Celebration is today March 20 at 4:00 PM at the Jack B. Patrick Building on campus.
Augusta Tech continues to engage with individuals and companies across the automotive industry—locally, statewide, and nationally—to raise additional funding for renovations and equipment. A full list of funding opportunities is available through the Augusta Tech Foundation at 706-771-4023 or foundation@augustatech.edu.
Editor’s Note:
Mitzi Oxford is a veteran broadcaster and features writer who also worked at the same television station in Columbus, Georgia as Augusta’s Brad Means! If you have a South Carolina story idea for Mitzi, please email her at mitzioxfordcreative@gmail.com.
