GCCA Named Georgia College & Career Academy of the Year

The Greene College & Career Academy (GCCA) was awarded the prestigious Georgia College & Career Academy of the Year Award at the Governor’s Workforce Development Summit this week.

This statewide honor recognizes GCCA’s outstanding commitment to student success, innovative programming, strong community partnerships, and a hands-on approach to learning that connects the classroom to the workplace, preparing students for thriving careers and postsecondary opportunities.

“We are honored to receive this recognition,” said John Ellenberg, CEO of Greene College & Career Academy. “This award reflects the hard work and collaboration of our staff, students, local business and community partners, career coaches, and Board of Directors. Together, we are helping students discover their passions, develop essential skills, and connect their education to real-world success.”

The award, sponsored by Georgia Power, was presented during the annual summit held at the Georgia World Congress Center October 20-21, where the GCCA was celebrated for pioneering the first-of-its kind career coaching program, growing number of career pathways, and dedication to building a highly skilled local workforce.

“This recognition is a testament to the power of Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education in transforming lives,” said Mariana Mansfield, Greene County CTAE Director. “We are dedicated to preparing every student with the skills, experiences, and confidence to pursue their goals beyond graduation. Through strong industry partnerships, relevant coursework, and real-world experiences, our students are not just learning about careers, but also living them.”

Key Highlights of GCCA’s Achievements Include:

• Career Coaching & Mentoring: Greene County’s unique Career Coaching Program though the Thillen Education Foundation pairs students with more than 200 community volunteers who guide them through academic planning, career exploration, and postsecondary readiness. Many career coaches are retired professionals who provide personalized guidance, networking opportunities, and skills that last a lifetime.

“The Career Coaching Program represents the heart of what education should be: people investing in people,” said Dave Thillen, founder of the Thillen Education Foundation. “Personalized coaching encourages students to believe in their dreams and gives them the confidence to turn those dreams into achievable goals. Our volunteers are helping students discover purpose, motivation, and direction that will stay with them for life.”

• Expansive Career Pathways: GCCA currently offers 15 Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathways, including Agriculture, Welding, JROTC, and the recently added Early Childhood Education and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs. Each program is designed to align with the needs of Greene County’s workforce and provide students with clear paths to college and career success.

• Community & Industry Partnerships: Through strong collaboration with local businesses, colleges, and organizations, GCCA connects students to dual enrollment, Work-Based Learning internships, and career experiences that prepare them for success beyond graduation and allow them to gain hands-on experience while earning valuable industry credentials. Local business leaders also serve on the GCCA’s governance board to ensure programs align with evolving employer needs.

“It is an incredible honor for Greene County to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Aaryn Schmuhl, Superintendent of the Greene County School System. “Our College & Career Academy exemplifies what’s possible when schools, families, industry partners, and the community come together to invest in students’ futures. This award reflects a shared commitment to providing every student with opportunities for success.”