BREAKING: Southern Regional Technical College has just announced the graduation of its third cohort from the groundbreaking Street to Station Program, a vital initiative that equips fire medic students with essential skills. The program, in collaboration with Thomas County Emergency Services, prepares individuals for dual roles in fire rescue and emergency medical services.
This year’s pinning ceremony took place on January 27, 2026, at the Thomas County Board of Commissioners meeting, honoring the hard work and determination of the latest graduates. The newly certified firefighters include Brett Gilliard from Ochlocknee, Satchel Goodrich from Thomasville, Joshua King from Camilla, Thomas Maher from Boston, Montana Manley from Quincy, Florida, J.T. Moody from Thomasville, Sean Siddell from Pelham, and Clayton Taylor from Tallahassee, Florida. Each has completed an extensive 320 hours of training, which included classroom instruction, live fire training, and CPR certification.
Amy Davis, Vice President for Economic Development at SRTC, stated,
“The success of our Street to Station Program exemplifies SRTC’s dedication to meeting critical workforce needs within our service area.”
This commitment not only addresses local employment demands but also enhances community safety through well-trained emergency responders.
As these graduates transition to their Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) training, they will continue to benefit from the program’s hands-on learning approach. Under the mentorship of seasoned professionals at Thomas County Emergency Services, these trainees will gain invaluable practical experience alongside their educational coursework.
Launched in September 2023, the Street to Station Program allows participants to earn while they learn, combining paid work opportunities with classroom instruction. This innovative model ensures that apprentices receive practical, on-the-job training while building a solid theoretical foundation in their field.
Since its inception in 2021, SRTC’s Apprenticeship Program has successfully trained over 200 apprentices in partnership with 34 local businesses, demonstrating a strong community commitment to workforce development. Currently, SRTC has 100 students placed in apprenticeships across various sectors, including healthcare, automotive, and manufacturing.
The success of this program highlights the critical need for skilled workers in Georgia’s economy, supported by grants aimed at upskilling the workforce.
As the community celebrates these achievements, all eyes are on the upcoming advancements in emergency services training that will further impact public safety and workforce readiness in the region. Keep an eye out for more updates on this vital program and the continuing journey of these new firefighters.
