Automotive Technology Program Coordinator Jesse Davis giving a demonstration on the new Wheel Alignment Machine.

Fitzgerald, GA — Wiregrass Tech has invested in upgrading the equipment in the Automotive Technology and Welding & Joining Technology programs on the Ben Hill-Irwin Campus. The automotive program has received a new wheel alignment machine and alignment rack. It replaces an older piece of equipment students were using and provides Wiregrass automotive students with the latest technology in the field. “Students are now using the same equipment that is being used in our service area by businesses in the industry,” shared Jesse Davis, Automotive Technology Program Coordinator for Wiregrass. “The skills the students are learning operating the new equipment will be a plus for any employer.” The new equipment has videos, and step-by-step operating procedures.

The welding program also received a new CNC plasma cutter. This computerized-based equipment allows the operator to be able to design anything from signs, to welding art as seen on popular home decorating TV shows. Welding Instructor Terry Johnson shared, “Many welding shops have this kind of equipment and our students have already taken to it. They will be ready, once they graduate, to produce the quality of work needed in the industry.

Sparks were flying as the new CNC plasma cutter made contact with the metal as Welding Instrutor Terry Johnson demonstrated how the new machine operates.

Both programs qualify for the HOPE Career Grant, where if a student qualifies for the HOPE Grant, they could possibly be eligible for additional monies that could pay for tuition, fees, and books. Many graduates who qualify for the HOPE Career Grant graduate college with little or no college debt. The welding program of Wiregrass will be representing the college and state at National SkillsUSA Competition in Kentucky this June. Wiregrass welding student Morgan Davis earned a gold medal in Welding, and Andy Francis earned a gold in Welding Art Sculpture.

Wiregrass is currently accepting new students in both programs for Summer Semester. Classes start May 15. Summer Express classes start May 28. For more information, visit wiregrass.edu, or visit the campus admissions office.