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AI Takes on New Meaning for Young Madison Co. Farmer
When most people hear "AI," they think of artificial intelligence — chatbots, autonomous vehicles, and smart devices. But for Olivia Braswell of Madison County, Georgia, AI means something entirely different — producing quality livestock. Thanks to a $5,000 grant from HireSmart Cares, a nonprofit supporting the next generation in developing crucial skills, Olivia is…
The Real Worth of a Trades Education
Madison County ag mechanics instructor Josh Daniel wants his students to understand that hands-on skills can get them places in life. "Working with your hands doesn't make you any less smart than someone with a four-year degree," he said. "It's just a different skill set. We need to stop thinking of blue-collar work as less…
Hands-on Skills: HireSmart Supports New Elementary School Construction Teacher
Although the school year is young, Christy Hanson already sees her Danielsville Elementary School construction students gaining confidence in their hands-on abilities. "I can see a difference already in just a couple of weeks that I've been with them," she said. Hanson said she's particularly thrilled to see girls learning how to use a miter…
HireSmart Cares U.S. Career Assistance — Peyton’s Story
Even in silence, Madison County's Peyton Sartain keeps a beat as works on electrical wiring. "If the song has a good beat, I like it," he said. "So, in my head, I'm just trying to play a good beat." The music in Sartain's head is a winning tune. The rising Madison County High School…
HireSmart Cares U.S. Career Assistance — Devin’s Story
While the monuments of Washington D.C. stand as testaments to past leaders, Devin Self is already laying the groundwork to become a leader in his own right — in the poultry industry. This 2024 Madison County High School grad has his eyes on the prize — a future in poultry science. And he's not wasting…
HireSmart Cares U.S. Career Assistance — Westlynn’s Story
Westlynn Epps sees local moms wearing her earrings and their children wearing her T-shirts. "I see my earrings a lot, especially at football games," said the rising junior, who serves on the Madison County athletic training team, putting tape on ankles and wrists during games. Epps' business is called "Works By Westlynn," and the Danielsville…
HireSmart Cares U.S. Career Assistance — Christopher’s Story
If Christopher Wagnon says Caterpillar Inc. is "like family," he means it literally. The 2024 Madison County High School graduate recently joined his mom and dad, Crystal and Nathan, working for the construction equipment manufacturer. "I just knew I was going to be doing a blue-collar job," said Christopher. "When my dad first showed me…