WIOA Helps SGTC Nursing Instructor Fulfill a Dream
The Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) provides critical support for qualifying students at South Georgia Technical College (SGTC), covering costs such as tuition, books, and supplies. For Brandy Nipper, that support was life-changing—not only for her but also for the countless patients and students she has helped as both a nurse and a Practical Nursing instructor at SGTC’s Crisp County Center in Cordele.
In 2008, after years of working as a waitress, Nipper decided to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. With the assistance of WIOA and coordinator Sandhya Muljibhai, that dream became a reality. “At the time, I was taking care of my mom, I had two kids, and I was going to school full-time,” Nipper recalled. “With all the financial responsibilities I had, I couldn’t have done it without her approving me for the program.”
“Brandy went through the process of interviewing and met all the requirements,” Muljibhai said. “She was an excellent student who always did what was needed, which made my job easier.”
Now, Nipper shares her story with her students, encouraging them to take advantage of WIOA’s benefits. “Having been on the program, Brandy’s been a great marketing tool for WIOA because she’s experienced how it helped her, and she really encourages her students to apply for it,” Muljibhai added.
A federally funded program, WIOA provides financial support for necessities like gas, food, and bills, as well as program-specific needs such as testing fees, tools, and uniforms. Students can keep these items if they graduate and are employed in their field.
The practical nursing program requires full-time dedication and comes with additional expenses. “There are a lot of students who can’t afford it, and WIOA helps them,” Nipper said. “It takes a big weight off of students’ shoulders and helps them focus on their studies.”
Nipper highlighted the importance of perseverance for students pursuing practical nursing. “They have to be dedicated and determined that they are going to finish,” she said, “and they have to take advantage of the support they have from the faculty and from their classmates.”
“It’s hard, but when you walk across that stage and receive your nursing pin, it makes it all worth it,” Nipper continued. “And for me, it doesn’t stop there. I get to see them grow and become even better nurses.”
Nipper, who has been teaching at SGTC since 2011, is currently pursuing a master’s degree and plans to continue her work at the college. “I started here as an instructor since 2011. I’ve been here ever since, and I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon.”
South Georgia Technical College offers over 200 programs leading to an associate degree, diploma, or technical certificate of credit. To learn more or to apply for admission, visit www.southgatech.edu.