Two Wiregrass Georgia Technical College industrial electrical students have signed on to be apprentices through the college’s popular apprenticeship program. Not only do these students receive relevant classroom instruction through Wiregrass, but they also receive paid work experience through the program. Anthony Shaw and Jayden Tobisola are electrician apprentices with Valdosta Electric, Wiregrass’ newest partner through the college’s apprenticeship program.
The new apprentices will train under the supervision of licensed and experienced electricians at Valdosta Electric, one of the region’s well-established electrical contracting companies known for its commitment to quality and community involvement. Through the apprenticeship model, students earn as they learn, combining paid on-the-job experience with classroom instruction in industrial, commercial, and residential electrical systems.
“Our partnership with Valdosta Electric represents exactly what the apprenticeship model is designed to do: connect education to opportunity,” said Bill Mele, apprenticeship coordinator at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. “Every new apprentice represents a step toward closing the skilled labor gap in South Georgia.”
Through an apprenticeship program registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, Wiregrass apprentices receive on-the-job learning (OJL) hours with employers and related technical instruction (RTI) through the college. This approach prepares students for certification, advancement, and long-term career success in the electrical trades.
Valdosta Electric has been a cornerstone of the community for decades, wiring schools, businesses and hospitals throughout the area. The company’s partnership with Wiregrass reinforces the shared mission of building a stronger, more skilled workforce and providing local career paths for young professionals.
“We are proud to invest in the next generation of electricians,” said Travers Polk, Valdosta Electric Project Manager. “Apprenticeships allow us to mentor local talent and strengthen our team with dedicated, trained professionals.”
Wiregrass currently partners with more than 40 employers throughout South Georgia, supporting apprenticeship programs in industrial maintenance, electrical, healthcare, transportation and public safety. The college’s goal is to expand opportunities for students and employers alike, and to build workforce solutions that benefit the entire South Georgia region.
For more information about apprenticeship opportunities, contact Bill Meli, Apprenticeship Coordinator, at bill.meli@wiregrass.edu. The college is currently accepting new students for the spring semester during the “fee-free month of November.” Spring semester applicants in November will have the application fee waived. Spring semester classes begin January 12, 2026. To learn more about the college and/or apprenticeship program, visit Wiregrass.edu.
