Georgia Northwestern Technical College President Dr. Heidi Popham has once again been recognized as one of Georgia’s most influential leaders, earning a place in Georgia Trend magazine’s GEORGIA 500 for 2026.

This marks the fifth consecutive year Popham has been included in the publication, which recognizes leaders across major industries and organizations who are making an impact throughout Georgia.

Popham has served as president of Georgia Northwestern Technical College since 2019, when she was appointed by the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia. She has worked at GNTC for more than 30 years.

“It is an honor to be included among the GEORGIA 500,” Popham said. “This recognition reflects the incredible work being done every day at GNTC.”

Popham credited the college’s faculty and staff for their dedication to providing educational opportunities and preparing students for the workforce.

“I am fortunate to serve alongside an outstanding team of faculty and staff who are passionate about changing lives through education and creating opportunities for our students,” she said. “This honor is one I proudly share with the entire GNTC family.”

Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Greg Dozier praised Popham’s leadership and commitment to workforce development throughout Northwest Georgia.

Dozier said her fifth consecutive selection reflects the opportunities GNTC continues to create for students and the region’s workforce.

Popham began her career at GNTC in 1995 as executive assistant to the president. She became director of Institutional Effectiveness in 2007 and was promoted to vice president of Institutional Effectiveness in 2009.

In 2016, she became executive vice president, overseeing Academic Affairs, Adult Education, Institutional Effectiveness, Student Affairs and Student Success.

Three years later, she was named president.

Popham also serves on several regional boards and advisory committees, including those associated with College and Career Academies. She is a graduate of the Technical College System of Georgia Executive Leadership Academy, Leadership Rome and Leadership Dalton, and is a member of the Rome Rotary Club.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Covenant College and both her master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Georgia.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College serves students across Northwest Georgia through associate degree, diploma and certificate programs in fields including aviation, business, healthcare, industrial technology and public service.

According to the college, more than 14,000 people participated in GNTC credit and noncredit programs during the past year. The college reported an annual credit enrollment of 9,342 students and a 100 percent placement rate.

An additional 4,740 individuals received services through adult education, continuing education, business and industry training and Georgia Quick Start programs.

Popham’s latest recognition highlights GNTC’s continuing role in workforce education and economic development throughout Northwest Georgia.