Northeast Georgia Provides Non-Traditional Education to Adult Learners

Situated off U.S. Interstate 29 in Northeast Georgia, Athens Technical College works with adults — primarily above the age of a traditional college graduate — at various experience levels in order to prepare them for careers in medical, automotive, industrial and food production industries. Programs range from classes for students learning English as a second language to dual technical certificates and a GED-equivalency in the students’ fields of choice.  

“We want to help you reach your educational and career goals,” Stephanie Benson, director of the adult education division at Athens Tech, said. “So it's not just learning the basic skills. It's learning the technology skills, the employability skills, that are needed to help (adult learners).”

“We want to help you reach your educational and career goals,” Stephanie Benson, director of the adult education division at Athens Tech, said. “So it's not just learning the basic skills. It's learning the technology skills, the employability skills, that are needed to help (adult learners).”

St. Mary’s Hospital, Piedmont Regional Hospital and Athens Medical Clinic partner with Athens Tech to employ students after they receive CPR and other technical certifications.

“I’m looking forward to reaching my goal. I’m really excited about how everything’s gonna play out,” Boone said. Boone is able to study for and take the GED for free due to grants, such as one for special populations, and funding that comes from federal grants for the technical colleges in Georgia.

Dekia Boone always planned on pursuing higher education, but life presented obstacles during and after high school. “Now that my kids are a little older, I’m able to go back in and pursue my GED,” she said.

“I’m basically just trying to please God and show myself improved,” said Karlton Holie. Holie looks forward to working in the automotive industry. Once students complete the necessary certificates, Athens Tech helps employ students with automotive partners like Heyward Allen GMC and Heyward Allen Toyota.

Prospective students sign up for a “Future Friday” orientation hosted at the Dr. Kenneth C. Easom Building for business and education. After a brief orientation, they take the TABE (Tests of Adult Basic Education), which can take up to four hours. The TABE assesses what curriculum path offered by Athens Tech will be best suited to the skill level and experience of each student.

Cecil McIntyre is a fourth-year studying journalism and political science at the University of Georgia.