South Georgia Technical College (SGTC) recently recognized graduates of its John Deere Agricultural Technology program during a special ceremony on campus, honoring their completion of the program and celebrating their transition into the workforce.
Academic Dean Dr. David Finley welcomed students, families, dealership partners, and SGTC faculty, noting the progress made by the group throughout the program. “I feel very confident that each and every one of these folks here are going to succeed,” Finley said. “We’ve seen them work here, and we’ve heard from their dealers about the work they’re doing. You did yourselves very well while you were here.”
Julie Partain also addressed the group, thanking students for choosing SGTC and families for their support. She emphasized the importance of continued communication between graduates and the college. “It is a true partnership, and we welcome your feedback,” Partain said. “If you get to work and think the next class needs to know something, please let us know.”
Instructors David Cox and Matthew Burks shared reflections on the group’s time in the program. Cox praised the students for their character and growth. “I do appreciate every one of y’all,” Cox said. “I hope the best for you, and hopefully I’ve been as much of a blessing to you as you have been to me.”
Burks encouraged graduates to build on the foundation they have developed during the program. “Take this and go with it,” he said. “You’ve got a good foundation to build off of with your dealership. Run with it.”
Graduates recognized during the ceremony included Mason Boocock of Ocala, FL, Braylon Burton of Fort Mitchell, AL, Ruben Castaneda of Okeechobee, FL, Devon Clarke of Albany, Miles Cundiff of Bainbridge, Matias Degaudenzi of Saint Augustine, FL, Kamden Donaho of McAlpin, FL, Jon Henry Ellis of Ochlocknee, Connor Gillard of Fort Pierce, FL, Wesley Griffin of Troy, AL, Logan Guinn of Chappells, SC, Tristan Harvell of Bainbridge, Ryan Heard of Alabaster, AL, Riley McBride of Section, AL, Ethan Paul of Phenix City, AL, Dakota Philpot of Lake City, FL, Gabriel Price of Oneonta, AL, Katie Price of Abbeville, AL, Eli Sanders of Paint Rock, AL, Connor Smith of Cullman, AL, and Ethan Stalvey of Waverly.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of plaques to each graduate, recognizing their achievements and marking the completion of the program.
The John Deere Tech program is a special admission program. For more information about the partnership between John Deere and South Georgia Technical College, interested individuals can contact Matthew Burks at 229-931-2401 or via email at mburks@southgatech.edu.
