Marion County Senior Graduates from SGTC Before High School Through Dual Enrollment

As Justin McCardle prepares to graduate from Marion County High School in May, he already has another major accomplishment to celebrate: earning a diploma in Diesel Equipment Technology from South Georgia Technical College through the college’s Dual Enrollment program.

Justin began his journey at SGTC as a high school sophomore studying Criminal Justice. But he quickly discovered that his real passion was the hands-on work he was already doing with his father, Jamie, who owns and operates his own business.

“I grew up in that kind of field because he has been doing it all his life,” Justin said. “I just kind of had a knack for it and fell in love with it.”

Dual Enrollment gave Justin the opportunity to explore that passion early. He attended night classes on the Americus campus while still in high school. “It helps you get opportunities earlier and faster,” he said, “and gives you more opportunities as you go on down the line.”

His parents agree. “You don’t have to do four years of high school, graduate, and then do however many years of college to get started to where you want to be,” said Justin’s mother, Rebecca. Laughing, she added, “You can get started earlier and start making money earlier.”

Jamie McCardle said the program is a great fit for motivated students. “I wish they had that when I was coming through school,” he said. “I see things through Justin’s eyes now that I wish I had done when I was his age to have a better start.”

Justin credited the SGTC Dual Enrollment team with helping make the process seamless. “They made it really simple for me,” he said. “It was all laid out. They told you what you needed to do and how to do it.”

His advice for others considering the program? “It’s a lot of work, but if you can handle it, you’ll have a leg up on anyone who didn’t take that opportunity.”

While Justin isn’t sure of his long-term plans just yet, he’s already looking ahead to his next step: enrolling in SGTC’s Welding and Joining Technology program while continuing to work alongside his father.

“I’ve done welding before, and it’s also something I really enjoy,” he said. “So I figure go ahead and take it, and that way you’re certified.”

To learn more about Dual Enrollment at South Georgia Technical College, contact Brittny Wright-McGrady at (229) 931-2866 or brittny.wright-mcgrady@southgatech.edu.