SGTC Electronics Student Selected for Internship with International Paper

Philip Anthony Fajardo Quillope, an Electronics Technology student at South Georgia Technical College (SGTC), has been selected for a competitive four-month internship with International Paper, where he will work in the company’s instrumentation department.

Quillope, a resident of Buena Vista, earned the internship after completing a rigorous interview process. The position will allow him to gain hands-on experience in industrial electronics, applying the technical skills he’s developed in the classroom to real-world systems.

“This opportunity is something I’m very excited about,” said Quillope. “It’s a chance to see how what we’ve learned in class translates to the field. I have some experience in industrial work, but this will give me a new perspective—especially moving from production into the maintenance side.”

Electronics Technology instructor Mike Collins, who nominated Quillope for SGTC’s Student of Excellence recognition earlier this year, praised his performance.

“Philip is an excellent student,” said Collins. “He consistently completes his assignments on time, stays focused, and does everything asked of him. This internship is a great fit for his skillset and career goals.”

Collins emphasized the importance of real-world training opportunities like this one. “Internships like these allow students to deepen their understanding of industrial electronics and gain direct exposure to the kind of systems they’ll work with in their careers. We also have partnerships for internships with Robins Air Force Base and Imerys.”

Quillope said his decision to enroll at SGTC was influenced by the college’s strong reputation and connections with employers. “I’m from the area, and I knew others who had gone through the program and found success. I also wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps—he was an electrician. I grew up around it, and I wanted to understand the work he did.”

Quillope credits SGTC’s supportive faculty with helping him balance his academic and personal obligations. “Mr. Collins has been a great advisor. He’s always available when I need help and works with my schedule.”

To others considering SGTC and the Electronics Technology program, Quillope had a simple message: “Do it. The workforce is out there, and the jobs are available. You need the foundation and training to succeed, and SGTC provides that. The instructors care, and if you apply yourself, you’ll go far.”

SGTC offers more than 200 associate degree, diploma, and technical certificate of credit programs, including Electronics Technology.

Fall registration is August 13 and classes begin August 18. Apply now at www.southgatech.edu.