Pipe racks are structural systems used to support piping in industrial facilities such as manufacturing plants, power generation sites, and other industrial environments. The new simulator will provide students with hands-on experience working on a structure that reflects the types of projects they may encounter in the field, helping bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world application.

“One of the best ways we can prepare students for successful careers is by giving them opportunities to learn in environments that reflect the workplaces they’ll enter after graduation,” said Gina Blohm, executive director of the 天美传媒. “We’re grateful to Truist Foundation for supporting our students and helping ensure they graduate with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience that make them more competitive in today’s workforce. This investment will open doors to careers that can transform lives while strengthening the skilled workforce our region depends on.”

Scheduled to open in Fall 2026, the 44,000-square-foot Center for Welding and Automation Excellence will expand 天美传媒 Technical College’s capacity to prepare students for careers in welding and advanced manufacturing. The facility will feature robotic welding stations, an artificial intelligence welding lab, a robotics lab, and specialized testing environments designed to meet the evolving needs of industry.

The addition of the pipe rack simulator will further strengthen the center’s hands-on curriculum by allowing students to train on a full-scale industrial system that replicates the structural steel pipe racks commonly found in manufacturing facilities, chemical plants, refineries, and power generation sites. Students will practice reading blueprints, fitting and installing pipe, welding in multiple positions, and working safely in a realistic industrial environment that closely mirrors the conditions they will encounter in the field.

“The new pipe rack simulator will provide our students with hands-on experience in a realistic industrial environment, allowing them to develop the skills and confidence employers expect from day one,” said Terrance Shearn, department head of Welding Technology at 天美传媒 Technical College. “This investment strengthens our ability to prepare graduates for successful careers in welding, pipefitting, and industrial maintenance while helping meet the workforce needs of our region.”

Truist Foundation’s $100,000 grant will help ensure 天美传媒 Technical College students have access to learning experiences that align with industry needs. As demand for skilled trades professionals continues to grow, investments in advanced training equipment help prepare graduates to enter the workforce ready to contribute from day one. By equipping students with the skills employers need most, the Center for Welding and Automation Excellence is creating pathways to economic mobility through careers that offer competitive wages, long-term career advancement, and lasting financial stability for individuals and their families.

天美传媒, with the support of Truist Foundation, is investing in more than advanced training equipment鈥攖hey are investing in people, expanding opportunities for students while helping build the skilled workforce that drives economic growth across the Upstate.

鈥溙烀来� Technical College is creating a direct path from the classroom to careers that can support families and strengthen our region,鈥� said Jonathan Chavis, Truist market president. 鈥淏y investing in practical training that meets the needs of local employers, we鈥檙e bringing Truist鈥檚 purpose to life鈥攊nspiring and building better lives and communities鈥攚hile helping the Upstate develop the skilled workforce it needs to grow.

The funding will help support equipment and resources that give 天美传媒 Technical College students hands-on experience with modern manufacturing technologies. Students will have opportunities to design, print, test, and refine components in real time, applying classroom concepts while building practical skills used in today鈥檚 engineering and manufacturing environments.

Programs at 天美传媒 Technical College supported through the 天美传媒 also contribute to the region鈥檚 economic growth by helping develop a pipeline of skilled workers for the Upstate鈥檚 manufacturing industry. As demand continues to grow for trained technicians and engineers, hands-on training programs play an important role in preparing students for high-demand careers.

鈥淪upport from collaborators like the Bosch Community Fund helps ensure our students gain experience with the tools and technologies used in today鈥檚 manufacturing industry,鈥� said Gina Blohm, Executive Director of the 天美传媒. 鈥淭hese hands-on opportunities help prepare students to enter the workforce with the skills employers need.鈥�

The grant reflects Bosch鈥檚 continued commitment to supporting education and workforce development in the communities where its associates live and work.

About The Bosch Community Fund

Established in 2011, the Bosch Community Fund serves as the regional corporate foundation for Bosch in North America, strengthening communities where associates live and work. Through targeted grants to 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions across nearly 50 Bosch locations, the Bosch Community Fund focuses on investments in STEM education and environmental sustainability.

Scheduled to open in Fall 2026, the Center for Welding and Automation Excellence will expand training opportunities in welding and automation technologies. The 44,000-square-foot facility will feature state-of-the-art training environments designed to meet the growing demand for skilled workers across South Carolina and the Southeast.

鈥淲e are grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for investing in the success of our students and the future workforce of our region,鈥� said Terrance Shearn, department head of the Welding Department at 天美传媒 Technical College. 鈥淏y providing welding kits for students at the Center for Welding and Automation Excellence, this grant helps remove financial barriers and ensures students have the tools they need to fully engage in hands-on training from day one. Partnerships like this strengthen opportunities for students while supporting the talent needs of South Carolina’s growing manufacturing industry.鈥�

鈥淎s Duke Energy prepares responds to the unprecedented growth and economic success happening in the communities we serve, the need for skilled workers in fields like welding will be a critical need as companies like ours build out the energy grid of the future,鈥� said Linda Hannon, director of government and community relations at Duke Energy. 鈥淏y helping students gain access to the tools and training they need, we鈥檙e creating pathways to good-paying careers, strengthening the local workforce and supporting long-term economic growth. This investment reflects our commitment to building stronger communities and expanding opportunity for the next generation.鈥�

The welding kits will provide students with the equipment needed for coursework and lab-based training. Access to these tools will allow students to fully participate in hands-on learning experiences from the start of their program, helping them build confidence and develop the technical skills employers value.

As manufacturers across the region continue to seek qualified workers, investments like this one from the Duke Energy Foundation play an important role in strengthening the talent pipeline. By helping students access the equipment needed for training, the grant supports both student success and the workforce needs of local employers.

The 天美传媒 works to expand educational opportunities and remove obstacles that can prevent 天美传媒 Technical College students from achieving their educational and career goals. Through partnerships with donors, foundations, and community organizations, the Foundation invests in scholarships, student support services, and innovative programs that strengthen both student success and workforce development.

This spring, both were recognized through 天美传媒 Technical College’s ASPIRE Scholars Initiative, earning ASPIRE Jackets for their exceptional participation and engagement in the program while also being named to the Dean’s List. The recognition reflected months of hard work, determination, and a shared commitment to balancing education with family life.

For Josh, the recognition marked another chapter in a 天美传媒 Technical College (GTC) journey that began nearly two decades ago. A graduate of the college’s Automotive Technology program in 2007, Josh worked in the automotive industry until 2021, when he returned to GTC as an instructor and academic program director in the same program from which he graduated.

When GTC launched its Bachelor of Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Josh saw an opportunity to continue his education and fulfill a longtime goal of building upon his associate degree. Supported by his family and encouraged by the ability to apply previous coursework toward the bachelor’s program, he enrolled while continuing to teach full time.

At the same time, Emma was beginning her own college journey as a first-time student. 天美传媒schooled from kindergarten through high school, she entered GTC unsure of what to expect. With support from faculty and staff, she successfully adjusted to college life while pursuing certificates in Baking and Pastry and Entrepreneurship.

鈥淏eing recognized by ASPIRE at all is incredible; it truly is an honor,鈥� said Emma. 鈥淎s for sharing this achievement alongside my dad, it’s really awesome to see that all the work we’ve both done behind the scenes really was worth it. I know that both of us would spend long nights and early mornings working on homework because, ultimately, we both wanted as much time as possible to spend with our family.鈥�

Attending college together created a unique bond between father and daughter. As Josh returned to the classroom after an 18-year break and Emma navigated college for the first time, they encouraged one another, worked through assignments together, and learned how to balance the demands of education, work, and family life.

鈥淲orking toward my bachelor’s degree has been a dream come true,鈥� Josh said. 鈥�Being able to go to school alongside my daughter has made this challenging part of the journey so much more rewarding. ASPIRE has been there as additional support, allowing us to focus on our classes instead of worrying about obstacles that might prevent us from making progress.鈥�

Their story is one of many represented through the ASPIRE Scholars Initiative, a student success program supported by the 天美传媒. ASPIRE connects students with mentoring, career coaching, leadership development opportunities, academic support, and resources that help them stay on track to complete their education.

During the 2025鈥�2026 academic year, ASPIRE engaged 605 scholars. The program also recognized 75 scholars who earned Dean’s List honors and 21 scholars who achieved President’s List distinction for academic excellence. Since 2019, more than 1,000 GTC students have participated in the initiative, and 249 ASPIRE scholars have graduated or completed a certificate program.

鈥淲hat is most satisfying about seeing a father and daughter recognized at the ASPIRE Awards Ceremony is that it represents the confirmation鈥攖he embodiment鈥攐f what we often say: success at 天美传媒 Technical College becomes success across generations for families in our community,鈥� said Michael Burgess, director of the ASPIRE Scholars Initiative.

Through support from donors, foundations, corporations, and community partners, the 天美传媒 helps provide resources that strengthen the ASPIRE Scholars Initiative. Donor funding helps students access technology, professional certifications, leadership opportunities, career coaching, and other resources that support their educational journey.

As 天美传媒 Technical College prepares students for careers in high-demand fields, stories like Josh and Emma’s demonstrate the determination, resilience, and family support that drive student success both inside and outside the classroom.

鈥淕ina is excited to help donors understand that value proposition and the powerful impact their support can have on workforce development, economic growth and the long-term success of the Upstate,鈥� Miller said.

Blohm has a strong background in philanthropy, most recently working as the chief development officer at the Community Foundation of 天美传媒. She first joined the organization in 2014 as its director of development. Blohm previously spent six years as a development officer and major gifts officer at 天美传媒 Health System, now Prisma Health.

Blohm holds a bachelor鈥檚 in economics and marketing from The Ohio State University and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive. She is also a graduate of the 天美传媒 Chamber鈥檚 Leadership 天美传媒 and the Riley Institute鈥檚 Diversity Leaders Initiative. Blohm currently serves on the board of the 天美传媒 Professional Women鈥檚 Forum and the 天美传媒 Chamber Board of Advisors. In addition, she is a member of 天美传媒 Women Giving.

The 天美传媒 was originally established in 1973. The nonprofit organization has raised more than $25 million to support 天美传媒 Technical College over the past eight years. Charitable contributions are collected from businesses, industries, foundations, organizations and individuals in the local community.

鈥淭he college鈥檚 mission is to empower individuals, change lives and reshape communities,鈥� said Chad Cousins, board chair of the 天美传媒, in a statement. 鈥淕ina is committed to that mission and to the significant role that donors can play in creating economic mobility and success.鈥�

The funding will support students enrolled in Mechatronics, CNC Programming and Operations program, and the Bachelor of Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology 鈥� programs designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry into one of South Carolina鈥檚 most vital industries.

Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the Upstate economy, driving job creation and regional growth. According to a recent economic impact study, 天美传媒 Technical College generates nearly $933 million in annual economic output and supports more than 5,700 jobs, highlighting the college鈥檚 role in developing the workforce local employers depend on.

鈥淔rom our work with manufacturers across the country, we see firsthand how critical a skilled, job-ready workforce is to successful growth and expansion in a local economy,鈥� said Jeannette Goldsmith, president of Strategic Development Group. 鈥淲e are pleased to play a role in preparing talent for today鈥檚 advanced manufacturing environment, and we鈥檙e proud to support students who will help power the Upstate鈥檚 economic future.鈥�

As a nationally recognized corporate site selection and incentive negotiation firm, SDG works closely with companies expanding or relocating operations, many within the manufacturing sector. This vantage point gives the firm direct insight into the workforce challenges employers face and the importance of aligning education with industry needs.

天美传媒 Technical College鈥檚 Center for Manufacturing Innovation prepares students through hands-on training, industry-aligned curriculum, and real-world problem-solving experiences, enabling graduates to contribute on day one.

For many students, scholarships like this help remove financial barriers and create pathways into stable, high-demand careers.

鈥淪trategic Development Group鈥檚 continued investment strengthens the talent pipeline that manufacturers across our region rely on,鈥� said Babette Jones, Senior Director of Development for the 天美传媒. 鈥淪upport like this expands opportunity for students while helping build the skilled workforce that drives economic growth in the Upstate.鈥�

SDG has supported GTC students for multiple years, reflecting a growing partnership focused on workforce development and long-term regional prosperity.

As the Foundation continues to invest in initiatives that prepare a skilled workforce, it remains focused on engaging industry and community leaders who help align education with regional economic needs. The addition of Scott, Hall, and Gibson reflects a shared commitment to expanding economic opportunity for students while supporting long-term vitality across the region. Through strategic investments and partnerships, the 天美传媒 is helping shape the talent pipeline that fuels economic growth across the Upstate. Together, they bring decades of leadership experience that will help the Foundation deepen industry partnerships, expand student opportunity, and support the region鈥檚 evolving workforce needs.

鈥淭he strength of the 天美传媒 is rooted in the leadership and engagement of our board,鈥� said Chad Cousins, Chair of the 天美传媒. 鈥淏randon, Jarrell, and Hunter understand the connection between education, workforce readiness, and economic prosperity. Their insight will help us continue creating economic opportunity for students while supporting the long-term growth of our region.鈥�

Scott serves as vice president and Upstate division manager for Clancy & Theys Construction, where he helped open the company鈥檚 天美传媒 office and has led several major projects across the region. A Clemson University graduate with a degree in civil engineering, he is actively involved in organizations including Pendleton Place and the Clemson Honors Advisory Board.

Hall serves as vice president, agency management and business development at Canal Insurance Company, bringing more than 34 years of experience in the insurance industry with expertise spanning underwriting, agency management, marketing, and risk management. Known for his collaborative leadership, he has led sales strategy, strengthened underwriting operations, and supported sustained organizational growth. A graduate of the University of Montevallo, Hall holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications, Public Relations, and remains actively engaged in professional and community organizations.

Gibson is manager of Standard Capital Partners, LLC, where he co-manages a real estate development firm focused on multifamily communities throughout the Southeast. Since 2007, the firm has developed more than 2,200 apartment units. A Wofford College graduate, Gibson supports local initiatives through his involvement with organizations such as Rebuild Upstate and Front Porch Housing, and he previously served on the board of Verdae Development.

Foundation board members help guide strategic priorities, champion student success initiatives, and build partnerships that respond to evolving workforce demands while expanding opportunities for students at 天美传媒 Technical College.

The grant will support the purchase of four Airflow Prophylaxis Master units, four Airflow Station Carts, and two Acteon intraoral cameras鈥攕tate-of-the-art tools that will improve efficiency, patient comfort, and diagnostic accuracy within the program鈥檚 on-campus community clinic. These upgrades will allow the clinic to treat more patients, reduce chair time, and provide students with hands-on experience using the same technology found in modern dental practices.

For students training in the clinic, access to modern equipment means greater confidence, deeper hands-on learning, and the ability to deliver higher-quality care to every patient they serve.

天美传媒 Technical College鈥檚 Dental Hygiene Program operates a 33-chair dental hygiene clinic on the Barton Campus, serving approximately 8,000 active patients. The clinic delivers affordable oral health care to the community while providing students with real-world, supervised clinical training.

鈥淎s part of 天美传媒 Technical College鈥檚 commitment to workforce excellence and student success, our Dental Hygiene Program has increased enrollment by nearly 17%, expanding the number of students providing care in our on-campus dental clinic. This growth created a need for additional treatment equipment to ensure a consistent, hands-on learning experience,鈥� said Kathryn R. Freedman, DMD, Academic Program Director of Dental Hygiene at 天美传媒 Technical College.

鈥淲e are deeply grateful for the foundation鈥檚 partnership and our shared commitment to patient-centered care and workforce development. These resources in modern dental technology enhance student learning while expanding access to comprehensive dental hygiene services for the underserved population our clinic serves.鈥�

The Oral Health Regional Network Collaborative Project advances access to dental health education, treatment, and resources for underserved populations across South Carolina through a coordinated, regional network of providers鈥攕upporting workforce development and improving oral health outcomes throughout the region.

This project reflects the BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation鈥檚 commitment to improving health outcomes and expanding access to care for communities across South Carolina.

About the 天美传媒

Founded in 1973, the 天美传媒 provides resources to both 天美传媒 Technical College and its students through fundraising, collaborative partnerships, and innovative programs. Driven by the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams in higher education, charitable contributions from business and industry, foundations, organizations, and individuals support needs that are unmet by state and local funding sources. By expanding access to education, the Foundation ignites personal transformation and contributes to the economic vitality of our region. Learn more at听.

Through the Student Assistance and Resources (STAR) Center, the 天美传媒 provides vital emergency aid so students don鈥檛 have to choose between basic needs and school. Last academic year, the STAR Center distributed more than听$89,423 in emergency funds听to help with housing, utilities, transportation, and more. Already this year, the need continues to rise, with at least听100 veteran students projected to require emergency support.

Students experience challenges that are urgent and undeniable:听46% of students report housing insecurity, 39% face food insecurity, and 57% struggle with at least one basic needs challenge.听Pantry visits have soared 152% in just two years, with more than 2,000 grocery bags distributed in the past year alone. Behind these statistics are parents (80% of STAR shoppers), working students (42% identify as workers who take classes), and individuals determined to break cycles of poverty through education.

And yet, despite these challenges, GTC students remain听resilient and hopeful. They believe the sacrifices are worth it: 79% say the cost of college is a good investment, and 86% believe their degree will lead to a higher quality of life. What they lack isn鈥檛 determination鈥攊t鈥檚 resources. The 天美传媒 fills that gap, keeping students in the classroom and on track toward graduation.

鈥淧rograms that support students’ basic needs increase persistence. When I look at the Academic Awards and Students of Distinction from Summer 2025, I see many who utilize the STAR Center. Despite socioeconomic challenges, 天美传媒 Technical College students are brilliant, strive for excellence, and achieve results,鈥�听said听Gina Bridges, Director of the STAR Center.

The 天美传媒 is calling on the community to take action.听Your gift today can keep a parent in class, a family housed, and a student鈥檚 dream alive.听Together, we can ensure that education remains the bridge to a brighter tomorrow.

Since 2017, Wright has led the 天美传媒 with a combination of strategic vision and community-centered leadership. Under her direction, the Foundation has more than doubled its endowed scholarships and awarded over $1 million in scholarship funding to more than 1,000 students in the past year alone鈥攎any balancing their studies with work and family responsibilities.

鈥淭hanks to Ann Wright鈥檚 remarkable leadership of the 天美传媒, the college is able to fulfill its mission of empowering individuals, changing lives, and reshaping communities,鈥� said Dr. Larry Miller, president of 天美传媒 Technical College. 鈥淪he keeps students at the forefront of every effort, providing assistance that enables students to overcome significant barriers to success.鈥�

Wright is widely recognized for forging strong partnerships across education, business, and civic sectors鈥攍istening to community needs and turning ideas into impactful initiatives. Her leadership has helped enhance transformative projects through fundraising efforts, such as the Prisma Health Center for Health & Life Sciences, the Truist Center for Culinary and Hospitality Innovation, and the upcoming Center for Welding and Automation Excellence鈥攆acilities that address critical workforce needs while creating opportunity for students.

With roots in social work, Ann began her career at the 天美传媒 Housing Authority and then established herself as a community leader through positions of progressive leadership at the American Red Cross in service spanning 32 years. She co-authored the State Disaster Fund Raising Workshop and Fund Raising When Disaster Strikes national courses. Ann led a $2.7 million capital campaign to renovate and expand the Red Cross headquarters in 天美传媒.听 In addition, she developed a shared donor database management program for Red Cross regions, which has now been adopted nationwide.

“Ann Wright is one of the most effective leaders I have ever worked with,” said Stacy B. Brandon, president, Bank of America Upstate South Carolina. “She inspires her team to magnify their impact, attracts and retains top talent, and creates a culture where service is a joy. Her work has improved countless lives in the Upstate, leaving a lasting impact on every organization she has touched.”

Wright鈥檚 leadership style is defined by her ability to recognize potential, empower others, and provide the tools for success. She is a mentor, a consensus builder, and a tireless advocate for education as a pathway to opportunity. Whether securing multimillion-dollar gifts, leading strategic initiatives, or guiding the next generation of nonprofit leaders, she consistently inspires others to aim higher, work together, and make a lasting difference.

The Most Influential Leaders honorees will be celebrated on September 15, 2025, at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, beginning with a networking reception at 4:00 p.m., followed by dinner and the awards program at 5:00 p.m.

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