Georgia-Pacific strengthens technical education in Georgia through partnership with GPTC

Georgia-Pacific, a Koch company, has signed a professional development partnership agreement with Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) aimed at strengthening the local workforce through education and training. The initiative underscores the company’s commitment to investing in the communities where it operates, emphasizing technical education as a foundation for sustainable economic growth.

As part of the alliance, Georgia-Pacific has identified several high-demand areas for skilled professionals, including logistics, operations, finance, general and industrial maintenance, electricity, mechatronics, and industrial mechanics. The first joint initiatives are expected to begin in fall 2025, aiming to raise awareness of Georgia-Pacific’s presence in the region and build a strong pipeline of qualified talent through GPTC.

Dr. Tavarez Holston, President of GPTC, stated that the partnership with Georgia-Pacific “reflects our shared commitment to preparing students for sustainable careers in high-demand industries.” He emphasized that the collaboration “creates a direct connection between the classroom and the workforce, ensuring that students are ready to take on critical roles that drive regional economic growth.”

 

Dr. Melinda Robinson-Moffett, Associate Vice President of Economic Development at GPTC, added that the partnership “allows our students to learn directly from industry leaders while gaining insight into the skills most needed by employers.” She noted that “together, we are building career pathways that lead to long-term success for our graduates and a stronger workforce for the community.”

From the company’s side, Wesley Stone, Plant Director at Georgia-Pacific Madison Plywood, expressed pride in the collaboration: “Georgia-Pacific Madison Plywood is honored to work with Georgia Piedmont Technical College to help train the next generation of skilled professionals,” he said. “By linking education and industry, we are investing not only in our future employees but also in the long-term success of the communities where we live and work.”