CONYERS, Ga. — Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) has opened its Electric Vehicle Training Center in Rockdale County in partnership with the Restoration Storehouse Center and the Conyers Rockdale Economic Development Council, expanding hands-on workforce training for one of Georgia’s growing industries and creating new opportunities for students to prepare for careers in transportation and EV technology.
On Monday, August 31, more than 100 community members, local leaders, industry partners and supporters gathered at the center, located at the Restoration Storehouse Center in Conyers, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The center opened in time for the first cohort trained there through a partnership between GPTC and Rivian.
During the ceremony, speakers reflected on the shared vision that brought the center to life. GPTC President Dr. Tavarez Holston spoke about what happens when a community identifies a need, dreams about what is possible and works together to make it happen.
“This center is what happens when a community dreams together,” Holston said. “Our partners saw a need, shared a vision and came together to create something that will open doors for people in Rockdale County and across our region. As Georgia continues to lead in transportation and electric vehicle innovation, we want to make sure our students are prepared not just to participate in that growth, but to build careers and futures because of it.”
Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Greg Dozier, Restoration Storehouse Executive Director Dr. Rob Hughes and other community and industry leaders also addressed the crowd. Students from the first GPTC and Rivian training cohort shared their experiences and what the opportunity has meant for them.
The EV Center brings industry-focused training directly to Rockdale County as Georgia continues to see growth in electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing and transportation. Through training developed with Rivian, students gain skills connected to the technologies and workforce needs impacting the industry.
The center also opens during a period of continued growth for Georgia Piedmont. As GPTC serves more students and expands programs, the College remains focused on connecting that growth to workforce needs across its service area.
The EV Center is one part of that commitment. GPTC continues to prepare students for careers across the transportation industry, including automotive, diesel, commercial truck driving and emerging electric vehicle technologies.
To learn more about EV training and workforce development opportunities at Georgia Piedmont Technical College, visit GPTC.edu.