Five SGTC Electrical Lineworker students receive Flint Energies Scholarships

   Five South Georgia Technical College Electrical Lineworker students received the South Georgia Technical College Foundation’s Flint Energies Electrical Lineworker Scholarships recently.  The students were awarded the scholarships based on work ethics, academics, and overall class performance.

Edward Drake Taunton of Reynolds was awarded the Flint Energies Electrical Lineworker Scholarship and then Bailey Cole Conner of Gay, Ethan Sims of Wadley, Christian Prickett of Matthews, and Daniel Peavy of Savannah were awarded the South Georgia Technical College’s Flint Energies Scholarships for Electrical Lineworker students also earning a Commercial Truck Driving (CDL) license.

   “We are so appreciative of Flint Energies for providing this funding to the SGTC Foundation for our Electrical Lineworker students and for those ELAC students who incur additional expense to earn their Commercial Driver’s License training while also attending the Electrical Lineworker program,” said SGTC President Dr. John Watford.

    “These scholarships allow students to achieve their goal of a career in the Electrical Lineworker field while also bringing additional skills to the workplace with their CDL if they choose to do so,” explained Dr. Watford.  “And with all of the devastation from Hurricane Helene right now, there is a tremendous need across Georgia and other southeastern states for Electrical Lineworkers and Commercial Truck Drivers.”

   All five students thanked Flint Energies for the extra assistance with the scholarships.  “I chose to attend South Georgia Technical College and the Electrical Lineworker program because I wanted a career that allows me to help people and work outdoors,” said Drake Taunton.  “Being a lineworker is one of the most important jobs I can think of.  It takes time and effort to do it safely and I am committed to learning the essential skills that it requires.  I want to be able to restore power to homes and businesses when storms happen.”

    Taunton left a full-time job to attend SGTC’s Electrical Lineworker program and commuted 85 miles each day for classes.  “This scholarship is a blessing,” added Tauton.

   Bailey Conner, Ethan Sims, Christian Prickett and Daniel Peavy signed up to receive their CDL Class B license while they were enrolled in the Electrical Lineworker program.  This required students to enroll in two programs during a shortened eight-week semi-semester.

    Ethan Sims signed up for both programs and mentioned that it had been a life-changing experience, filled with purpose, as he worked towards fulfilling his dream of becoming a lineworker.  A dream he thought was out of reach.  In July of 2021, he was riding a four-wheeler and collided with a truck.  He was transported to the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta where he immediately went into surgery.  He broke his left femur and shattered his kneecap. 

   The next few months he was confined to a wheelchair and crutches.  His recovery was uncertain.  But thanks to his family, great physical therapists, and his faith, he was able to walk independently in January of 2022.  That experience taught him resilience, gratitude, and appreciation for every opportunity.

   “I am deeply grateful for this scholarship and this opportunity,” said Sims.  “As a first-generation college student, I am committed to finishing my program and helping support my family as an Electrical Lineworker.”

Bailey Conner, Christian Prickett, and Daniel Peavy also talked about their struggles and how appreciative they were of the opportunity to receive the scholarship as well as the training.  “I grew up in a low-income household, so I’ve known a lot of struggles in my life,” said Christian Prickett.  “I began working a full-time job at 16 and completed all my high school assignments online so that I would be able to graduate. Not being able to work during the Lineworker program has made it difficult to stay afloat.  Receiving this scholarship helps me know that I am on the right path,” said Prickett. 

   Bailey Connor and Daniel Peavy also struggled with not being able to work while attending the two programs.  “Pursuing a career as a lineworker requires specialized training and certifications to ensue the safety of myself and my teammates,” said Connor.  “This scholarship will allow me to focus more attention on my training rather than worrying about my financial situation.  It has motivated me to continue striving for excellence as I prepare to give back by ensuring the safe delivery of electrical services to the community I will be serving.”

    Daniel Peavy is a recent high school graduate.  He used his savings to enroll in the electrical lineworker and CDL programs at SGTC and believes that his investment will pay big dividends toward helping him pursue a career he is excited about.  “This scholarship will help me purchase the tools and equipment needed to start a long and successful career in the power industry and I appreciate Flint Energies and the Foundation for this opportunity,” said Peavy.

     Nearly 1000 students have graduated from this eight-week program that has a 99% job placement rating.  The median annual wage for electricians, line installers and repairers is between $50,000 and $60,000 per year.  With over-time and storm duty, many electrical lineworkers are making six-figures in less than three years.

     For more information about the Electrical Lineworker program at South Georgia Technical College contact Tami Blount at 229-931-2040 or tblount@southgatech.edu. 

   South Georgia Technical College is currently accepting applications for this program and other classes.  Spring semester begins January 9.  Students can go to www.southgatech.edu and click on the Apply Now button on the top right-hand side of the home page to apply.

   For more information about applying, contact Admissions Director Candie Walters at 229-931-2299 or cwalters@southgatech.edu in Americus.