Last week, select Griffin-Spalding County School System (GSCS) high school seniors participated in the Griffin-Spalding Ready initiative. This weeklong workforce development program, hosted at Griffin Region College and Career Academy (GRCCA) in partnership with Southern Crescent Technical College, was designed to equip students with needed tools for life after graduation. The program included resume building, mock interviews, soft skills workshops and career exploration. Students also attended inspiring sessions with guest speakers, including David Johnson, who spoke about goal-setting and personal accountability, and leaders from local industries who shared firsthand insights into high-demand career paths.
Throughout the week, students met with representatives from several major employers in the region including Caterpillar, WellStar, Brightmoor Nursing Center, Delta Airlines, Georgia Banking Company, and multiple Commercial Driver's License (CDL) companies. These businesses led hands-on sessions about what it takes to succeed in their industries and conducted on-site interviews with participating students. The program was intentionally structured to connect students directly with companies seeking to hire entry-level talent and provide long-term career growth opportunities.
A.Z. Kelsey Academy Senior Olivia Robinson stated, “Prior to participating in this program, I did not know what I was going to do after graduation, I did not have many options. But, this week, I learned so many new skills and have been introduced to so many new opportunities.”
“I have always been nervous and shy but this program has helped me develop better communication skills which has given me more confidence. I had a great interview with Wellstar and I am looking forward to my future after graduation, said A.Z. Kelsey Academy Senior Tequilla Coggins.
The success of the program was evident, all participating students either received job offers or secured second interviews with the potential for employment. Griffin-Spalding Ready has proven to be more than just a career-readiness initiative, it is a launchpad for students stepping confidently into the workforce. GSCS plans to expand the program next year, continuing its mission to bridge the gap between education and employment.
Griffin High Senior Dustin Littleton stated, “I knew that I wanted to go into the healthcare field because I have always been passionate about helping people. This program confirmed that nursing is what I want to do. I plan to attend Southern Crescent this summer to get my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and work at either Brightmoor or Wellstar while I earn my degree.”
“I began this program planning to just continue my side hustles after graduation, but I am leaving with great career opportunities and I am excited about my future,” said A.Z. Kelsey Academy Senior Nig’Zel Ferguson.