Georgia Piedmont Technical College has big plans for the future that include being the leading provider of a high-tech workforce in the booming nanotechnology and microchip processing world. GPTC’s vision is to create a futuristic, hi-tech, hands-on learning and training facility, aptly named the Center for Innovation and Emerging Technology. While the center is still in the conceptual and planning stages, it is expected to measure around 50,000 square feet and will be equipped with the latest in learning environments and laboratories that mirror real-world on the job training. The proposed center would be built in Newton County. 
“While the Center for Innovation and Emerging Technology is in the visionary stage, the college is so excited about all the possibilities it can bring,” said GPTC President Dr. Tavarez Holston. “We expect the center to be ‘the’ place for students and employees to go when it comes to learning and training in hi-tech, high-demand, and high-paying industries like advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, bioscience technology, cybersecurity, computer engineering, electric vehicle technology – both land and air – and more.”
Drawing on a recently-signed MOU (Memo of Understanding) with an international leader in the semiconductor industry, SKC/Absolics, the plan for the new center is that it will provide the perfect opportunity to create and sustain a talent pipeline for emerging technologies. As part of the MOU, Georgia Piedmont Technical College will enhance its existing partnership with K-12 schools in Newton County to create more opportunities for work-based education, as well as using an apprenticeship model to recruit and retain students and employees.
Watch this space as more details become available!