Three Welding and Joining Technology students at South Georgia Technical College are proving that dedication and hands-on experience pave the way to career success. Under the guidance of instructor Tom Mayo, the students have spent the past year developing their skills and preparing to enter the workforce upon graduation in December.
Jeremy Gonzalez, a 2024 honor graduate and salutatorian of Dooly County High School, will earn both his Welding and Joining Technology diploma and a Technical Studies Associate of Applied Science degree. Classmates Miles Jacobs, a 2023 Crisp County High School graduate, and Alex Bueno Fortuna, a 2023 Dooly County High School graduate, are both working part-time at Walmart in Cordele while completing their welding studies. All three students have been nominated for SGTC’s Student of Excellence award.
“These are great students who lead by example,” said instructor Tom Mayo. “They help their classmates without hesitation and demonstrate strong character, teamwork, and work ethic.”
The trio has also contributed to several successful hands-on projects, including creating a custom BBQ grill for the Cordele Culinary Arts program, a Butterfly Chair for a fundraiser and silent auction, and a Box Blade—each project showcasing their technical skill and craftsmanship.
Mayo credits the support of the college’s Welding Advisory Team—comprised of professionals from Harris American, West Fraser, Golden Foundry, Cordele Metal Works, and Superior Machine Works—for helping connect students with industry expectations and opportunities. Mayo also serves on the Lee County High School Advisory Committee for Welding and Construction, further strengthening SGTC’s community partnerships.
To help students transition smoothly from the classroom to the workforce, SGTC’s Career Services office provides resources such as job placement assistance, resume writing support, interview preparation, and professional networking opportunities.
For more information about Career Services at South Georgia Technical College, contact Cynthia Carter at ccarter@southgatech.edu.
South Georgia Technical College offers over 200 programs, including associate degrees, diplomas, and technical certificates of credit. Now is the perfect time to apply—SGTC is waiving the application fee throughout November. Use the promo code FREEAPP26 when applying online at www.southgatech.edu and take the first step toward a rewarding career.