Eric Garcia and Wuilmer Gerra are two Apalachee seniors who are making great strides towards graduation while gaining industry skills at Lanier Technical College. They are both also doing excellent work in their academic courses as they pursue their diplomas through the Accelerated Career Diploma program.

Both Eric and Wuilmer are in their third and fourth level welding courses at Lanier Technical college. They are both finding great value in the courses their and are learning a tremendous amount from their instructor Mr. Tom Reiger. They have both shared that they love Mr. Reiger’s approach to teaching and have learned a lot about not only welding technology, but also how important a strong work ethic can be in the the industry.

Eric transferred to Apalachee from Gwinnett County at the beginning of his third year of high school. His first year at AHS was a little rocky and he was struggling to find motivation to come to school. He missed a lot of days and quickly found himself behind. Mr. Dean, the Graduation Specialist for AHS, spoke with Eric and about the Accelerated Career Diploma track and Eric knew immediately that was what he wanted to do. From there, he found renewed purpose in his education and began getting himself back on track. Since he enrolled in the welding program, he has excelled there. When he graduates, he wants to enter the workforce and pursue a career in welding. Eric credits his mom for motivating him to persevere and finish his high school education. He cannot wait to be done with school so he can pursue his career.

Wuilmer transferred to Apalachee from California in the middle of his third year of high school. He was a little off track for graduation but very quickly committed to getting back on track. Wuilmer knew that he needed to work hard to make sure he graduated and his grades have reflected that. Wuilmer discussed his plans for what career he wanted to pursue with Mr. Dean and decided he also wanted to pursue an Accelerated Career Diploma. He started his welding classes this past fall and has been thriving at Lanier Tech. Wuilmer plans to pursue a career as a pipeline welder or a boiler maker. Wuilmer can’t wait to graduate as he knows it will make his parents happy and proud of him.

Apalachee High School is so proud of the commitment these two young men have made to finishing high school. They will not only have a diploma when they graduate, but they will also have career certifications that will set them up for a successful future.