Augusta Technical College is set to dramatically expand its automotive training capacity with the launch of a new 65,000-square-foot Automotive Institute, supported in part by a $250,000 grant from the Georgia Power Foundation.
The new facility, which will replace the college’s current 10,000-square-foot space, aims to prepare more than 1,000 skilled technicians annually for careers in the high-demand automotive and auto body repair 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.”
Located at 1122 Walton Way -- the former site of Johnson Cadillac -- the Jim Hudson Automotive Institute will offer diploma and technical certificate programs in automotive technology. Training will cover combustion, electric, hybrid and diesel engines, as well as auto body and collision repair. Automotive industry-specific courses will also be added to the college’s associate degrees.
“We are so pleased with the tremendous support Augusta Tech has always received from our partners at Georgia Power,” said Dr. Jermaine Whirl, president of Augusta Tech. “They have a strong commitment to empowering our community.”
Whirl emphasized the investment will help students access good-paying jobs, build sustainable careers and contribute to stronger communities.
In addition to credit-based programs, the Institute will support local businesses through noncredit training and upskilling opportunities offered by the College’s Division of Economic Development.
The Georgia Power Foundation’s gift is part of a larger wave of community investment in the project. The Jim Hudson Automotive Group contributed $1 million, earning naming rights for the new facility. Augusta National Golf Club and the Knox Foundation also contributed $1 million each for facility acquisition. Several other area dealerships and businesses have made six-figure donations, according to the college.
