Douglas, GA – Wiregrass Georgia Technical College proudly hosted a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Commercial Truck Driving and Diesel Technology Center at the Coffee Campus. This facility is the result of a longstanding public-private partnership that began 18 years ago, when the Douglas-Coffee County Development Authority generously donated land to the college for Commercial Truck Driving classes.
In response to growing industry demand, Wiregrass launched the Diesel Truck Maintenance program in 2017, initially using a spare bay for the lab and a breakroom as a classroom—both provided by Transpower of Douglas. Today, the vision has come full circle with the opening of the new 8,753-square-foot facility, which features two classrooms, a shared computer lab, a diesel lab with two bays, four offices, a dedicated faculty area, and an open-concept student lobby.
The grand opening celebrated the many collaborators and donors who made this project possible. President DeAnnia Clements welcomed guests and recognized numerous community leaders and supporters who played a critical role in bringing the project to life. Key contributors included: Transpower, Ameris Bank, Chip Dorminy, Fitzgerald Automotive Group, RW Griffin, Dewey Hayes, Lasseter Tractor Co., PACCAR, Pope Trucking, Prince Automotive Group, Tom Smith, Mark Taylor, Walmart Distribution, and the Coffee Community Foundation. Construction partners Kellerman Construction and IPG Architects were also recognized for their contributions.
Speakers for the event included TCSG Deputy Commissioner Dr. Ray Perren, Wiregrass Foundation North Chairman and alumnus Hal Wiley, and current CDL student Willie Smith, who closed the ceremony with a benediction. Dr. Perren, who served as President of both Wiregrass Tech and the former East Central Technical College, was part of the early planning and vision for this facility.
Special guests in attendance included TCSG Chief of Staff Mark Peevy, Senior Executive Director of External Affairs Brendan Bowen, Director of Field Services for Governor Brian Kemp Jody Redding, Regional Representative for U.S. Congressman Austin Scott Charles White, Georgia State Representative Angie O’Steen, Wiregrass Board of Directors Chairman Dr. Mark Sutton, and Douglas-Coffee Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Authority CEO Matt Seale, who also serves on the Wiregrass Board of Directors.
President Clements shared, “This new center represents more than bricks and mortar — it’s a true investment in the future of Coffee County and our surrounding communities. Thanks to the unwavering support of our industry and community partners, we’re expanding opportunities for students to gain hands-on skills that lead directly to high-demand careers. This center will not only prepare the next generation of CDL drivers and diesel technicians, it will strengthen our local workforce for years to come.”
Following the ribbon cutting, guests toured the career-focused facility, designed to reflect real-world industry environments for CDL and Diesel training. Both programs are currently accepting new students for Fall Semester and are eligible for the HOPE Career Grant—which may provide additional financial support to qualifying students.
Wiregrass will host Free Application Week July 14–18. Those who apply during that week will have their application fee waived. Fall classes begin August 12. Apply in person at the One-Stop Center or online at www.wiregrass.edu.
