VALDOSTA — Wiregrass Georgia Technical College held a groundbreaking ceremony on September 3, 2026, for a new Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training facility on its Valdosta Campus. This project is set to enhance the college's capacity to prepare students for careers in the commercial transportation industry, directly supporting employers across Wiregrass’ service area and addressing the growing demand for skilled commercial drivers in South Georgia. For residents, commuters, parents, and small-business owners, this investment means more local talent to keep goods moving and the economy strong.
The event recognized the Harley Langdale Jr. Foundation for its generous contribution towards the new facility’s development, alongside a partnership with the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission (GSFIC). Wiregrass President DeAnnia Clements remarked that the groundbreaking represented "much more than the beginning of a construction project," calling it a "significant investment in the future of our students, our workforce, and the economic vitality of South Georgia."
The ceremony commenced with an energetic performance by the Dynamic Valdosta High School Drumline, setting a tone focused on community, opportunity, and future workforce development. Attendees included Valdosta Mayor Scott James Matheson; Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Greg Dozier; local county leadership; presidents from area Chambers of Commerce; presidents and representatives from technical colleges across Georgia; and numerous other business, education, and community leaders. Members of the TCSG State Board, the Wiregrass Board of Directors, and the Wiregrass Foundation Board of Trustees also joined college leaders and supporters to celebrate the project.
The collaboration with the Harley Langdale Jr. Foundation holds particular significance due to the late Harley Langdale Jr.'s personal connection to the institution. Langdale Jr. was a student of a predecessor institution that ultimately became part of today’s Wiregrass Georgia Technical College, and he also served as an early trustee for the foundation. Donnie Warren, executive director of the Harley Langdale Jr. Foundation, emphasized this historical link, noting that Langdale Jr. understood the value of education and the importance of preparing people for local career opportunities. Warren added that the Foundation was proud to support Wiregrass Georgia Technical College and this important investment in workforce development, hoping the facility will help students build successful careers while strengthening the communities and industries vital to South Georgia. This partnership is seen as a full-circle moment, with a legacy rooted in South Georgia education now fostering opportunities for future generations of students.
The planned CDL facility is intended to strengthen Wiregrass’ ability to provide crucial training for essential careers in commercial transportation, which remains a critical component of the regional and national economy. Continued investment in workforce training helps ensure students gain access to the necessary skills and resources to enter these essential careers. President Clements extended thanks to the Harley Langdale Jr. Foundation, state and local leaders, and community partners instrumental in bringing the project to this stage. She also acknowledged Studio 8 Architects, specifically Nathan Faircloth and Chase Gregory, and EMC Engineering’s Joel D. Womack, whose expertise and commitment helped transform the vision into reality.
This groundbreaking signifies Wiregrass’ ongoing commitment to addressing workforce needs and creating pathways to high-demand careers. It aims to ensure students throughout South Georgia have access to education and training that can transform their lives. The event further highlighted the importance of robust partnerships between education, philanthropy, government, and industry. These investments in technical education have a ripple effect beyond college campuses, supporting families, strengthening local employers, and contributing to the long-term economic vitality of the communities served by Wiregrass Georgia Technical College.
