The Georgia Department of Education is creating a Career Pathway that will equip students with the skills to enter the electric vehicle industry, State Superintendent Richard Woods announced Monday.
The Electric Vehicle Career Pathway was launched in response to Governor Brian Kemp’s announcement of the largest economic development project in Georgia history, a $5 billion investment, 7,500 jobs by electric vehicle maker Rivian. Inc. at Stanton Springs North.
“As educators, it is our responsibility to prepare students for successful futures – so it is essential that we respond quickly to emerging workforce needs in the region,” says Woods. state of Georgia,” Woods said. “Development of a new Electric Vehicle Career Pathway will further expand career pathways and ensure Georgia students have the opportunity to benefit from Rivian’s investment in our state.”
GaDOE’s Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) staff will work with industry representatives and educators to develop a roadmap of courses that prepare students for careers in the electric vehicle industry . The pathway will include EV-specific subjects along with instruction in automotive engineering, manufacturing, drafting/design, and technology.
“Developing an EV Pathway for Georgia high school students through our CTAE programs will help strengthen career pathways and help meet industry needs,” said GaDOE CTAE Director, Dr. Wall said. “To help meet the needs of Rivian’s workforce, creating a high school electric driving roadmap will only be the first step. We are also looking at ways to facilitate early exposure to the careers offered at Rivian for our middle and elementary school students. ”
Local superintendents and CTAE directors in the school districts immediately affected by Rivian’s announcement – Jasper County, Morgan County, Newton County, Walton County and the City of Social Circle – are working to ensure Ensure close partnerships expand opportunities for students.
“We are excited about the opportunities Rivian will provide our students as they think about life beyond high school, and including our Electric Vehicle in School pathway will ensure their Our students are equipped to succeed, said Samantha Fuhrey, superintendent of the Newton County School System. “Our local economic development team is a strong partner and we look forward to continuing to work together to meet Rivian’s workforce needs.”
CTAE in Georgia provides a high school experience that prepares students for life after high school. Students can learn skills for real-world careers in over 100 Career Paths, earn industry-recognized certifications, and participate in job-based apprenticeships and training opportunities. .
Career paths are open to all students, no matter which path they plan to take. Those who complete the pathway are prepared to pursue higher education, enlist in the military, accept an apprenticeship opportunity or immediately begin their career.
GaDOE’s CTAE team works with business and industry partners to ensure students have hands-on, up-to-date opportunities to gain career skills as part of their K-12 educational curriculum and meet workforce development needs across the state of Georgia.
