GPP has been a game-changer for the City of Valdosta’s workforce dynamics. The program doesn’t just focus on providing jobs; it’s a catalyst for community transformation. GPP is not just shaping careers; it’s shaping the future of our City.

“GPP is a great partnership for our local schools and Shaw Industries to better prepare the students to be thriving members of our communities,” said Jeremy Jones, Plant T-1 Department Manager at Shaw Industries. “It puts emphasis on the students finishing school before going into the workforce. Once they complete school through the GPP program they have tangible skills that will help them in their next steps

“It’s very rewarding working with the kids and seeing their level of  maturity at such a young age.  They have restored my faith in the next  generation.”

“We love to see [the GPP student] walk in the door. It tells the community we back our

schools and vice versa.” Northeast Georgia Newspaper

“This program does a lot of good in the community.  The kids are great and deserve a chance.”

“So many companies say, ‘We can’t hire you because you don’t have experience.’ Well,

we’re giving them the experience. Having the students is good for employee morale. It’s

good for our culture.” Carrier Transcold, World Leader in Heating, Air-Conditioning and

Refrigeration Solutions, Northeast Georgia facility

“It’s a win-win for us and the students.  1. Doing the right thing  for the community by helping to grow independent and contributing  members of society.  2. It helps business.  It’s hard to find people who  are going into manufacturing.  A gap exists between the high schools and informing students to examine manufacturing as a viable career option and viable money making option.  3. It helps kids who have not had support realize their worth and potential.  This program helps to  create support networks where they didn’t exist.”