Sims Academy of Innovation recently hosted two informational meetings related to dual enrollment programs.
On Monday, October 12th, a meeting about career and educational opportunities in the automotive industry was held. The featured speaker was Mr. Brad Akins, owner of Akins Ford in Winder. Mr. Akins spoke about the rapid growth of career opportunities in the automotive industry in our region, particularly in repair and maintenance. He had very positive things to say about the employees he has hired who completed programs at Sims Academy and Lanier Technical College. Most importantly, he shared what he looks for in potential employees: a sincere interest in the field and the "grit" required to develop their skills.
On Tuesday, October 13th, a similar meeting was held about welding opportunities. Mr. Greg Worley, Training Manager with Kubota USA, was the featured speaker. Like Mr. Akins, he reflected very positively about his involvement at Lanier Technical College and Sims Academy. Mr. Worley has recently joined the Sims Academy Board of Directors. When asked what he looks for in potential employees, Mr. Worley stated that he searches applications and interviews for evidence of commitment. He also stated that he leans heavily on teacher and instructor references during the application process.
At each of the meetings, representatives from Sims Academy and Lanier Technical College shared information about how students can get started with dual enrollment.
The state of Georgia provides every high school student in the state with an opportunity to earn 30 college credit hours before graduating from high school. Sims Academy and Lanier Technical College have partnered to facilitate as many Barrow County students as possible to participate in this program. Students from Apalachee High School, Winder-Barrow High School, Barrow Arts and Sciences Academy, and Foothills Education Charter High School are eligible. Private school students in our area are also welcome to participate.
All recordings and slide presentations are available on the Sims Academy website at http://www.simsacademyit.org. A direct link to the resources is also available here.