Albany Technical College will expand its Transportation Academy to include the areas of Automotive and Automotive Collision Repair with a special rollout presentation Wednesday, August 28 at 10:00 a.m. in Freedom Hall, Automotive Technology (Room 117).  This expansion will now incorporate the areas of Commercial Truck Driving, Diesel Equipment Technology, Automotive Technology and Auto Collision Repair Technology.   The alignment within Albany Tech consolidates all the areas of transportation that are currently in demand in the workforce and better communicates the needs of the community, all contained in one subdivision of the college.

In May 2018 a new initiative, Albany Transportation Academy, was an innovative workforce development program created at Albany Tech. The Albany Transportation Academy is designed to create a pool of trained, qualified employees to support the transportation industry and those industries that rely on efficient and cost-effective systems to move goods and services in our region.  

“Transportation and transportation support jobs are in high demand in our region and across the country,” commented Dr. Anthony O. Parker, President of Albany Technical College. “We know that the Albany Transportation Academy has outstanding potential to address and solve multiple workforce issues. Focusing on career training in these strategic areas, we will present a clear direction forward to those who live in our community, who are looking for a career that pays well and offers health benefits. With these jobs, a person can support themselves and their families and build a great future.”

Albany Technical College is committed to not only training individuals but also placement of those students in jobs, working with employers to better serve their needs. The Career Development Center on campus, under the guidance of Judy Jimmerson, Associate V.P. of Career Services, offers career skills assessments, career portfolio development, resume writing assistance, critiquing for career-related activities and internship and co-op opportunities. Partnering with our community with such companies as Albany Sunbelt Ford and the City of Albany, Albany Technical College supports local business by building a competent and educated workforce.

Community leaders have been very supportive of the Albany Transportation Academy. Mayor Dorothy Hubbard, Dougherty County Commission Chair Christopher Cohilas, Albany Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Bárbara Rivera Holmes, President of the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission Justin Strickland, have all discussed the need for the program in the community and regional benefits, realizing the advantages offered to our local businesses.  

College officials reiterated that for eligible Georgia residents, the HOPE grant and HOPE Career grant would pay most if not all of the tuition for Albany Transportation Academy programs. The entire list of requirements can be found on the Albany Tech website at albanytech.edu, and also are available through the Admissions Department.