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May 12, 2026

Two Northwest Georgia Students Awarded Roper Corporation Scholarship At GNTC

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Georgia Northwestern Technical College has announced that Tammy Chandler of Trion and Salvador Hernandez of Summerville are the spring 2026 recipients of the Roper Corporation Scholarship.

Chandler is enrolled in the Computer Support Specialist program at GNTC’s Walker County Campus, while Hernandez is studying Automation Technology at the Catoosa County Campus.

The Roper Corporation Scholarship was established in 2024 to provide financial assistance to GNTC students who are also employed by Roper Corporation. Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, fees, supplies, tools, and other educational materials.

GNTC President Dr. Heidi Popham said the scholarship reflects Roper’s commitment to supporting workforce development in Northwest Georgia.

Roper Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of GE Appliances, operates a major manufacturing plant in LaFayette and employs more than 2,500 people. Company officials say the scholarship helps remove financial barriers for students pursuing high-demand technical careers while strengthening the region’s manufacturing workforce.

May 8, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Drops To 3.3 Percent

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The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a point over the month to 3.3 percent.

That compares to 3.2 percent one year ago.

The region’s labor force increased by 2,155 over the month and by 4,086 over the year, reaching 459,952, an all-time high. The number of employed residents also rose, increasing by 2,996 over the month and 3,515 over the year to 444,625, also an all-time high.

Initial unemployment claims were up by 718 over the month and by 852 over the year, reaching 2,557.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the numbers are a strong sign during Economic Development Week, noting that more Georgians are securing jobs that support families and strengthen communities.

April 30, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Free GED Accelerated Academy Coming to GNTC’s Floyd County Campus

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Georgia Northwestern Technical College is offering a free GED Accelerated Academy this summer at the Floyd County Campus in Rome.

The three-day program is scheduled for June 4th through June 6th, 2026, and is designed to help eligible students earn their GED at no cost.

Participants will receive free GED instruction, practice tests, GED testing, meals, and snacks. Space is limited, and registration is required by May 12th.

Those who register must also attend one of two assessment dates: May 16th or May 21st.

The program is open to adults age 18 and older, and a government-issued ID is required.

April 23, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

GNTC Names Patty Hart Vice President of Economic Development

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Georgia Northwestern Technical College has named Patty Hart as its new vice president of Economic Development, placing a longtime leader in a key role supporting workforce training and business growth across northwest Georgia.

April 18, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach Record Highs In February

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The Georgia Department of Labor says the state reached new all-time highs in both labor force and employment in February, even as the unemployment rate ticked up slightly and job totals declined for a second straight month.

April 14, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Cisco Networking Academy Honors GNTC’s Dr. Dwight Watt For Instructional Excellence

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The Cisco Networking Academy has honored Dr. Dwight Watt, instructor of Computer Information Systems Technology at Georgia Northwestern Technical College, with its 2025 Instructor Excellence Advanced Level Award for outstanding teaching and student success.

April 14, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

State Senator Highlights Major Literacy Investment Following 2026 Session

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As the Georgia General Assembly wrapped up its 2026 regular session last week, State Senator Chuck Hufstetler of Rome is pointing to early childhood literacy as one of the most important issues addressed by lawmakers.

April 12, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Chattooga County TANF Job Opening Offers Temporary State Work Opportunity

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A job opening in Chattooga County is now being advertised through the Georgia Department of Human Services, but officials say applicants should understand this is not a standard public job posting.

April 10, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

AdventHealth Redmond EMS Launches New Paramedic Training Program

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AdventHealth Redmond EMS has launched a new paramedic training program aimed at strengthening emergency medical care across Northwest Georgia.

The program officially began April 8 and includes an inaugural class of 16 certified EMTs who are current AdventHealth team members. The 45-week program is designed to provide advanced clinical training, hands-on experience, and patient-centered emergency care.

Officials say the program will help expand career opportunities for EMS workers while improving response capabilities and patient outcomes in the region. Upon completion of the first cohort, the program will seek full accreditation.

“Launching this program allows our team members to expand their knowledge and skills so they can better serve our community,” said Nina Piatt, EMS captain and program director.

AdventHealth leaders say the initiative is part of a broader effort to invest in workforce development and build a stronger emergency response system by training paramedics locally.

The program is currently offered exclusively to AdventHealth EMTs at a reduced cost compared to traditional training programs.

Hospital officials say graduates will be equipped to deliver advanced, life-saving care and help ensure high-quality treatment for patients during critical emergencies.

April 10, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

GNTC Foundation Awards Over $48,000 in Spring Scholarships

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The Georgia Northwestern Technical College Foundation has awarded $48,350 in scholarships and grants to 56 students for the Spring 2026 semester, helping offset the cost of tuition and educational expenses across multiple programs.