Georgia Chamber President & CEO Tours Roosevelt Warm Springs Vocational Rehabilitation Campus

Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, visited the Roosevelt Warm Springs (RWS) Campus of the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA), touring the state-of-the-art classrooms dedicated to the center's career pathways for students with disabilities. He was joined by Jeremy Whitaker, a representative from C.W. Matthews, one of Georgia's leading highway contractors. 

"The Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency's Roosevelt Warm Springs campus creates a vital talent pipeline for some of Georgia's most in-demand jobs, providing essential career opportunities for deserving students," said Clark. "I am impressed by the impactful work being done by GVRA, Executive Director Chris Wells, and Residential Director Dennis Medders. Together, we are ensuring that Georgia employers have access to skilled workforce." 

At Roosevelt Warm Springs, students engage in real-world training, equipping them with the skills needed for a seamless transition into the workforce. The hands-on experience they gain gives them a competitive edge in today's job market.                                        

"GVRA was thrilled to welcome Georgia Chamber President & CEO Chris Clark to our campus, which has seen record attendance this fall," stated GVRA Executive Director Chris Wells. "His visit emphasizes our shared commitment to promoting the hiring of individuals with disabilities in Georgia's evolving economy. I was especially excited for Mr. Clark to see firsthand the diverse academic pathways that prepare our students for the workforce and enable them to earn credentials in high-demand fields."               

During the tour, Mr. Clark and a C.W. Matthews representative had the opportunity to meet students while they were in class and engage with instructors, who demonstrated their passion and commitment to the pathways program. 

Current academic pathways at the campus include logistics (fortlift/warehouse), hospitality, heavy equipment operation, low-voltage wiring, CVS retail, certified nursing assistant/home health aide, and auto detailing. Additionally, the programs offer stackable, industry-recognized certifications, allowing students to earn multiple qualifications within a single career pathway. 

This visit highlighted the ongoing efforts of GVRA and its partners to create inclusive career opportunities for individuals with disabilities, reinforcing the importance of diversity in Georgia's workforce.