A partnership between South Georgia Technical College, Ignite College and Career Academy, and Parker’s Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. is providing a local high school student with valuable hands-on experience while preparing for a future career in the HVAC industry.
Kelvin Carson, a rising Sumter County High School senior, recently completed the first week of an eight-week paid summer internship and is gaining practical experience alongside Parker’s Heating and Air technicians. Carson plans to begin dual enrollment studies in South Georgia Technical College’s Air Conditioning Technology program when the fall semester begins in August.
The opportunity grew out of conversations between Cynthia Carter, Air Conditioning Technology instructor Johnny Griffin, and Betty Suggs, Work-Based Learning System Coordinator at Ignite College and Career Academy. The group worked together to connect Carson with a local employer that could provide meaningful career exploration and industry experience.
Carter coordinated a meeting with Bryan McMichael, General Manager of Operations at Parker’s Heating and Air Conditioning, to discuss an internship that would allow Carson to develop technical skills while learning about employment opportunities in the HVAC field. Despite the company's busy summer season, Comfort Consultant Ryan Young and the Parker’s team welcomed Carson into the program.
Before entering the workplace, Carson participated in Work Ready and OSHA workshops at Americus-Sumter High School. The remainder of the summer is being spent working alongside experienced technicians, who have introduced him to unit change-outs, equipment installations, service calls, sheet metal fabrication, ductwork installation, and crawl space work.
During a recent visit by Carter and Griffin, Young praised Carson’s performance, noting that he has demonstrated a strong work ethic, is highly coachable, and is eager to learn.
By the time he returns to high school this fall, Carson will bring with him valuable industry experience and practical skills as he begins his dual enrollment studies at South Georgia Technical College.
South Georgia Technical College partners with local businesses and school systems to create work-based learning opportunities that prepare students for high-demand careers through hands-on experience and classroom instruction. Learn more about SGTC and its programs at www.southgatech.edu.