Date Posted: March 18, 2025
On Thursday, March 13, Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC) and representatives from Bonduelle officially signed an agreement to establish a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Training program for five Bonduelle employees.
Bob White, Executive Director of the Development Authority for Butts County, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration during the signing ceremony. He stated, “This is an important partnership between Bonduelle and Southern Crescent Technical College. We are excited about the work Bonduelle is doing in our community. We are also thrilled about SCTC’s initiatives on the Butts County Campus, which have expanded their program offerings to provide this training.”
SCTC will provide training in Industrial Systems Technology for the five apprentices. They will attend classes one evening a week at our Butts County Center, gaining valuable skills to enhance their job performance and technical knowledge. The two-year training program will culminate in the apprentices earning credentials in Manufacturing Maintenance Technology and Industrial Maintenance Technology from SCTC.
SCTC President Dr. Irvin Clark addressed the new apprentices saying, “Bonduelle is an important industry partner in Butts County. This partnership underscores our mutual commitment to workforce development in Butts County. The training you will receive at SCTC will benefit both you and Bonduelle. When you earn your credentials from SCTC and apply your new skills; you will have a tremendous impact on this company and this community.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for us,“ remarked Bonduelle Human Resource Business Partner Cynthia Thompson, “It represents the intersection of education and professional development. As we continue to foster a culture of growth within our organization, we recognize the immense value of our partnership with Southern Crescent Technical College.”
The SCTC Apprenticeship Program collaborates with local industry leaders to provide workforce development and technical training aimed at building a skilled workforce within the community. Through cooperation with employers, apprentices gain hands-on experience and practical skills while earning a paycheck. This “earn-as-you-learn” model, supported by the U.S. Department of Labor, allows apprentices to work full-time while attending courses at SCTC. Participants receive both on-the-job training and academic credentials, equipping them with the knowledge and expertise necessary for long-term career success.
About Bonduelle
At Bonduelle, we offer high-quality plant-based food from sustainable farming in nearly 100 countries, harvested at the height of its maturity and with very little processing. This is possible thanks to a strong local presence in our main regions. Putting our production sites close to the fields of our partner farmers – and your plates – is our strategy!
About Southern Crescent Technical College
Southern Crescent Technical College is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia and serves the workforce and community needs of Butts, Fayette, Henry, Jasper, Lamar, Pike, Spalding, and Upson counties. Currently offering over 200 programs of study in the areas of allied health, business, computers, film technology, public safety, professional services, and technical and industrial training, Southern Crescent Technical College takes pride in preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s workforce. From short certificate programs to diploma programs to associate degree programs, the College offers students the state-of-the-art training needed to make a successful and swift transition into the workforce and help stimulate the economic growth and development of the local community. Adult education, continuing education, and customized training opportunities are also available to provide appropriate training for students at every level.
L-R: Dr. Irvin Clark, SCTC President; Adessa Green, SCTC Assistant Director; Bob White, Executive Director of the Butts County Development Authority; Cynthia Thompson, Bondoelle Human Resource Business Partner; four of the five apprentices; Tolanda Barkely, Bonduelle Human Resource Coordinator.