Alton Ford Speaks at SGTC Black History Month Celebration
South Georgia Technical College board member Alton Ford was the guest speaker at SGTC’s recent Black History Month program on the Americus campus. The event was held in the John M. Pope Industrial Technology Center before an audience of SGTC students, faculty and staff as well as members of the community.
Ford recently retired from Flint Energies, where he served as Supervisor of Member Solutions. His career at Flint Energies spanned 39 years, beginning in 1985 and progressing through a variety of key roles. Over the years, he worked in Building Maintenance, managed Print Production, and led operations at the Flint Appliance Store before transitioning to Member Solutions in 1995. His leadership skills and problem-solving abilities led to his promotion to Supervisor of Member Solutions in 2020, where he played an integral role in resolving critical customer issues, optimizing operational efficiency, and mentoring employees.
In October 2024, Ford was appointed to the SGTC Board of Directors to represent Taylor County. As a board member, he continues to advocate for technical education and workforce readiness. He completed certified board member training through the Technical College System of Georgia Technical College Director’s Association, achieving certified board member status.
Beyond his leadership on the Board, Ford is also an active member of the SGTC Adult Education Advisory Committee, further demonstrating his commitment to education, career advancement, and lifelong learning. His deep understanding of workforce development and community engagement makes him an influential voice in shaping the future of technical education in Georgia.
SGTC Instructor of the Year Mary Cross presided over the ceremony which included musical selections sung by Lynn Williams with accompaniment from Leonard Tyson.
Glenn Bryant, a member of the SGTC custodial staff and a minister, offered the invocation, and SGTC cosmetology instructor trainee Janeisha Brown presented the occasion including a brief history of Black History Month.
SGTC President Dr. John Watford extended words of welcome to attendees and guests and reflected on the value of honoring Black History Month. “This is a very special program,” President Watford said. “It’s been held for over 30 years at South Georgia Tech, and we grow so much as a community, as a college when we come together, and we celebrate Black history.”
After his remarks, President Watford introduced Ford as the keynote speaker.
In his remarks, Ford spoke on the value of respect for one another and the importance of people from all walks of life working together for the common good.
“Respect is a very powerful word,” Ford said. “If we continue to respect each other… there is nothing that we cannot achieve.”
Cross shared closing remarks, and SGTC air conditioning technology instructor Johnny Griffin closed the ceremony with a benediction.