UPDATE: Southern Regional Technical College (SRTC) has just celebrated its third cohort of graduates from the transformative Street to Station Program, a vital initiative aimed at addressing critical workforce needs in emergency services. The ceremony took place during the Thomas County Board of Commissioners meeting on January 27, 2026, recognizing the achievements of fire medic students who have successfully completed their rigorous training.
This year, eight new firefighters were honored, marking a significant milestone in their professional journey. The graduates include Brett Gilliard from Ochlocknee, Satchel Goodrich from Thomasville, Joshua King from Camilla, Thomas Maher from Boston, Montana Manley from Quincy, Florida, J.T. Moody from Thomasville, Sean Siddell from Pelham, and Clayton Taylor from Tallahassee, Florida. These dedicated individuals have completed approximately 320 hours of intensive training, which included classroom instruction, live fire training, hazardous materials operations, and CPR certification.
“This achievement exemplifies SRTC’s commitment to bolstering essential emergency services within our community,” stated Amy Davis, SRTC’s vice president for economic development. The success of the Street to Station Program reflects the college’s dedication to equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in high-demand roles.
As these newly certified firefighters transition into their Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) training, they will continue to receive mentorship from seasoned professionals at Thomas County Emergency Services. This hands-on approach ensures that the trainees gain invaluable practical experience while pursuing their educational goals.
Launched in September 2023, the Street to Station Program is designed to support participants as they earn while they learn, merging paid work opportunities with essential classroom instruction. This innovative model not only provides practical, on-the-job training but also establishes a solid theoretical foundation in emergency services.
Since its inception in 2021, SRTC’s Apprenticeship Program has successfully trained over 200 apprentices by partnering with 34 local businesses. Currently, the college has 100 students engaged in apprenticeships across various sectors, including healthcare, automotive, and manufacturing. This initiative has been made possible through several grants aimed at enhancing Georgia’s workforce in key industries.
The impact of this program extends beyond mere statistics; it represents a tangible investment in the future of emergency services and community safety. As these firefighters step into their roles, they will play a crucial part in safeguarding lives and property in their communities.
Stay tuned for further developments as these graduates embark on their vital careers in emergency services, continuing to bridge the gap between education and employment in Georgia.
