Fitzgerald, Ga. – The Ben Hill-Irwin Campus of Wiregrass Georgia Technical has hired Michael Powell as the new Automotive Technology Instructor. Powell started his career in the automotive career in 1983, attended Wyoming Technical Institute, and has worked for Toyota and Pacific Bell. Over the years he has owned many automotive shops and has taught automotive for 11 years.

The Automotive Technology program is making a return to the Ben Hill-Irwin Campus and is excited to start enrolling students in the program for the Spring Express term, classes start February 13. “I hope to pass on the knowledge I have learned throughout the years from my predecessors, so others can enjoy a growing career in the automotive industry,” shared Powell. “Enrolling in this program is a stepping stone to a high-demand career field.” This program qualifies for the HOPE Career Grant, which is a grant available to HOPE Grant – qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with one of the 12 industries in Georgia for which there are more jobs available than there are skilled workers to fill them. The grant helps pay for tuition, books, and fees.

One of Powell’s goals for the program is to build the program strong again and work with local employers who hire automotive tech graduates. Apply in person at the One-Stop Center or online at wiregrass.edu. For more information about the program or to schedule a tour visit the college’s website at www.Wiregrass.edu.