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(left to right): BJ Beaver, Partnership Grand Strand; Eileen Patonay, South Carolina
Department of Employment and Workforce; Doug Obenour, Building Talent Foundation; Vincent
Myers, Horry-Georgetown Technical College; Amanda Van Natta, Horry County Schools; Morgan
Dendy, Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Scott Shoemaker, HGTC Professor, talks to students about the HGTC Electrical Lineworker
Program and other engineering technology programs.
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC), in partnership with the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce, Horry County Schools, and Partnership Grand Strand, successfully hosted the “Build Something Amazing” event on November 20, 2024, at HGTC’s Grand Strand Campus Conference Center. The career exploration event welcomed nearly 500 high school seniors from across Horry County for an immersive experience in skilled trades, connecting students directly with faculty, industry leaders, and hands-on demonstrations in fields such as electrical, HVAC, welding, and automotive technology.
This impactful collaboration between HGTC, local businesses, and community partners provided students a first-hand look at the career opportunities available within skilled trades. Business representatives, faculty, and advisory board members worked together to give students a comprehensive understanding of career and apprenticeship options, including pathways in plumbing, construction, and mechanics.
“We were thrilled to see so many Horry County students engaging with local industry professionals and exploring the possibilities available to them in skilled trades,” said HGTC President, Dr. Marilyn Fore. “This event represents our shared commitment to guiding students towards careers that not only support our community but also offer them fulfilling and rewarding futures. It was a true celebration of partnership and purpose.”
The event highlighted HGTC’s commitment to workforce development, showcasing the college’s extensive degree and certificate programs tailored to meet the needs of today’s evolving economy. Students gained valuable insights through hands-on demonstrations, faculty interactions, and discussions with representatives from local businesses, apprenticeship programs, and organizations like Apprenticeship Carolina and the Building Talent Foundation.
“The success of the Build Something Amazing event was a true testament to the power of collaboration,” said Dr. Fore. “With the incredible support of Horry County Schools, Partnership Grand Strand, the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (SC DEW), and the Building Talent Foundation, we were able to provide a transformative experience for Horry County’s high school seniors. Together, we offered students an in-depth look at the promising careers available in skilled trades and underscored the strength of our region’s commitment to developing a robust and talented workforce. We are grateful for the unified efforts of all our partners in creating an inspiring pathway to success for these young individuals.”
Key Highlights of the Event
Interactive Career Exploration: Students rotated through engaging stations representing fields such as CDL, diesel mechanics, machine tool technology, and marine and boat building, discovering the diversity of careers available.
Pathways to Apprenticeships: With representatives from leading local businesses on hand, students learned about apprenticeships and job shadowing opportunities, gaining a clearer picture of the skills and experiences needed for success in various trades.
Community Partnership: Business leaders, educational partners, and community organizations united to bridge the gap between industry needs and educational offerings, fostering a stronger connection between students and future employers.
Through this unique experience, students left with a new understanding of the many opportunities available to them right here in Horry County. The event underscored the region’s commitment to building a skilled workforce and the valuable role that education, business, and community collaboration play in preparing the next generation of professionals.