NTERNS FOR HALL
HALL COUNTY SCHOOLS
Work-Based Learning Honors Work-Based Learning Youth Apprenticeship
Alumni Spotlight
DOWNEY SMITH
CHEROKEE BLUFF HIGH
Class of 2023
Downey came to Work-Based Learning with a career goal of being a dental assistant. She started an internship with BGW Dental in Braselton. She had three periods of WBL and worked with her mentor, Audry Deluise. She was able to eventually learn how to scan paperwork, create post visit and post surgery kits for patients, enter insurance information, and many more tasks she had no idea she would be able to do!
Downey had this to say about her WBL journey: “I am more than excited to continue my dental career because of the new things I have learned about the dental field through Work-Based Learning. At first when I started this internship I didn't know what post-graduation was going to look I had planned to go to Lanier Tech and get my dental assisting degree but now I am more than excited for post-graduation because the job I was interning at offered me a full time job doing sterilization on instruments and eventually teaching me from the office to be an assistant.”
NICK VELEZ
CHEROKEE BLUFF HIGH
Class of 2023
Nick came to Work-Based Learning as a junior and is completing his second full year. Nick has always amazed me with the amount of hours he works and how he balances school and work.
Nick took on a position with McDonalds as a part time job which has turned into management opportunities. Nick was also able to participate in the McDonald’s manager training program and is a leader within his organization. He has learned innovative ways to connect with the team he supervises and had this to say about one skill he learned in Work-Based Learning: I think I have improved my people skills and have found better ways to handle hard situations with the people I work with or with customers
TESLA HARTOG
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2023
Tesla Hartog is a 2023 Chestatee Graduate. While in high school Tesla was an employability skills intern where he worked two jobs while carrying a full course load. Tesla was employed at Publix and Lanier Village Estates where he received positive feedback from his supervisors regarding his work ethic and skill set.
Upon graduation Tesla participated in the Industrial Maintenance Bootcamp at Lanier Technical College sponsored by the Georgia Poultry Federation. He went on to graduate from this program and is now certified in this area.
We are proud of Tesla and his drive to be his best in all he does. Pictured above (Left to Right) is Tim McDonald (Lanier Tech President), Mike Giles (President GA Poultry Federation), Tesla Hartog (CHS WBL Graduate), Cory Addison (Director of Business and Industry Training).
JOSHUA GREENE
CHEROKEE BLUFF H.S.
Class of 2022
Joshua Greene is a third-year neuroscience pre-med major at Georgia Institute of Technology. He is a 2022 graduate of Cherokee Bluff.
He completed the surgical technology pathway while at Cherokee Bluff High School and also worked as an intern through Work-Based Learning at Longstreet Clinics in Braselton. He graduated with honors and has continued his studies in the field of healthcare.
He secured an amazing opportunity with the US Department of Veterans Affairs, working with patients with Alzheimer’s disease and is now working on a team conducting this research.
Edgar Falcon graduated from Lanier College and Career Academy with a semester of work experience with Kubota, a tractor and heavy equipment manufacturer. He transitioned to full-time employment upon graduation.
The entry level position has granted Edgar many different opportunities with the global manufacturing company and he says this career opportunity might be a lifetime of employment with Kubota.
Edgar was not only a top student in the work-based learning program at LCCA but he was a spotlight student in his academics and was awarded the Young Professionals Award his junior year of high school. The foundation of Lanier College and Career Academy includes four pillars of excellence: leadership, character, competency and accountability. Edgar exhibited these attributes daily in both school and his work with Kubota.
Edgar graduated a year early and is now in an inventory inspection role with Kubota. He continues to gain new skills and learn about the entire operation.
EDGAR FALCON
LANIER COLLEGE & CAREER ACADEMY
Class of 2021
BEAU CRUMLEY
EAST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2022
Beau Crumley is a 2022 Graduate of East Hall High School. He is currently a Sophomore at the University of North Georgia studying secondary/general education. Beau plans to transfer to the University of Georgia or Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College after this year to study Agricultural Education and minor in Agricultural Business.
Beau work at Jaemor Farms while in Work-Based Learning and is still working at Jaemor Farms as a customer service representative.
Beau’s plans are to become an Agriculture Teacher on day!
GAGE MEDLIN
EAST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2022
Gage Medlin is a 2021 graduate of East Hall High school. Gage is currently attending North Georgia Tech for an Associates Degree in Agriculture Business.
Gage is currently in the Master Cattleman’s Program through UGA Beef Team.
Gage worked at the Hall County Agribusiness Center as a Work-Based Learning student and is still employed helping to manage the farm.
MATTHEW MAPLE
CHEROKEE BLUFF H.S.
Class of 2022
My internship at Lanier started off as unpaid, but through a month of hard work they brought me on full time. This introduced me to many opportunities and made me fall in love with aviation. I worked there for about a year. In that time I learned the ins and out of the flight school. I went through aircraft refueling training which taught me how to properly refuel an aircraft and how to maintain a 10,000 gallon tank of gas. They also taught me how to operate a tug and move an aircraft around the airport. This included making radio calls to alert any planes what I was doing, and not breaking the gear of the plane. One of the most valuable things I learned was how to fly a airplane. Lanier incentivized all of their employees, by providing discounted and sometimes free flight training. I’m now a junior at Middle Georgia State University working on my commercial pilots license. My plans for the future are to fly for Delta and I’m currently working on my application into there propel program. This program allows students at certain universities to receive a job offer from delta while they are still in school. I would also like to thank the WBL program for getting me that opportunity. If I never got that internship, I would of never found aviation.
ZACH MULLINAX
LANIER COLLEGE & CAREER ACADEMY
Class of 2021
Zach was a star student in the field of Agriculture Mechanics and Welding. Zach started attending LCCA his freshman year as a part-time student and immediately realized the Agriculture industry was his passion. That same year, he transferred to Lanier as a full-time student and led the charge in his basic agriculture classes.
As a sophomore, Zach attended welding classes at Lanier Technical College via a grant. This “sealed” his interest and he graduated in May of 2021 with a welding certificate.
Zach now works full time with Cottrell. He plans to eventually come back and teach welding but is enjoying his time in industry now.
SADIE SAXTON
NORTH HALL H.S
Class of 2022
“My time in work-based learning was amazing! My schedule was able to be open and flexible with Work Based Learning. I first went into WBL wanting to be in psychology or nursing. After having the experience of working closely with children I changed my mind to Elementary Education. With the help of Mrs. Sims I was able to get a job at First Baptist Day School and that made me fully realize and help put into perspective that I actually wanted to become a teacher.
I am now a Freshman at Samford University in Homewood, Alabama for Elementary Education.”
Kade White enrolled with Lanier College & Career Academy August of 2020, moving to Hall County from Carrolton, Georgia. He immediately made a great impression with his exceptional work ethic in both his academic classes and his work in CTAE classes, specializing in Agriculture Mechanics.
Kade was proactive in joining the Work Based Learning program at LCCA and was “hired” as an intern for our Agriculture Mechanics instructor, Brian Elrick. This relationship not only gave Kade new skill sets in his CTAE pathway but he also gained employability skills that clearly set him apart from his peers.
Working in the Agriculture Mechanics lab stirred Kade’s mechanical passion and led him to seek opportunities in this industry. Kade enrolled in the Electro-Mechanical/Refrigeration Academy at Lanier Technical College August of 2021 and completed the program October 4th with Industry Certifications in OSHA 10, Assistant Refrigeration Operator, Ammonia Refrigeration, and Industrial Forklift. This program is sponsored by WorkSource Georgia, Lanier Technical College & The Poultry Federation.
Kade is now employed with John Soules Food. We celebrate his dedication and hard work!
LANIER COLLEGE & CAREER
Class of 2021
KADE WHITE
Chris Juarez is a 2021 graduate of Chestatee High School. Chris was an Information and Business Technology pathway completer who had a passion for the HVAC industry. Since Chris grew up working for his family HVAC business, he felt the Business pathway better suited him, since he one day hoped to take over the business. During Chris’ time in the WBL program, he continued to intern alongside of his father at M.I. HVAC to learn the ins and outs of the business all while developing more and more skills in the industry. Chris is now enrolled at Lanier Technical College in the HVAC program and continues to work with his dad as he perfects his skills and strives to one day take over the family business.
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2021
CHRIS JUAREZ
Alex Yanez is a 2021 graduate from Chestatee High School. Throughout his high school career Alex completed the HVAC Pathway. His senior year he was a Work-Based Learning Intern at GEE Heating and Air where he worked alongside a mentor who trained him more specifically for this industry.
Upon graduation, Alex committed to work with GEE Heating and Air full-time and be a part of their training and leadership program. We are so proud of Alex and his commitment and focus.
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2021
ALEX YANEZ
Wyatt Wallace is a 2021 graduate of Lanier College & Career Academy. Wyatt served his two-year internship at Kubota. He said his high school, which focuses on developing students in a work-based learning environment, was key to his endeavors to jump start his life, stating, “I mean, you learn a lot — a lot — from getting into jobs early,” he said. “And I’m at work until probably 6 or 7 o’clock every day.”
Wyatt is attending August Technical Collage pursing a degree as an aviation technician.
LANIER COLLEGE & CAREER ACADEMY
Class of 2021
WYATT WALLACE
Raul was enrolled in Work Based Learning his Junior and Senior year of high school. His senior year, he attended Lanier Tech for HVAC. While attending Lanier Tech his senior year of high school he also worked at Stuart Pro Air.
After graduating high school, Stuart Pro Air hired Raul full time and is still currently employed at Stuart Pro Air.
EAST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2021
RAUL SALCIDO
Will Williams is a 2021 graduate of Chestatee High School. During his Senior year, will completed an internship at Kubota Manufacturing. Will worked alongside a mentor who gave him specific training in the area of manufacturing and engineering.
Upon graduation, Will committed to work with Kubota while attending Lanier Technical School to further his education and career in manufacturing and engineering. We are proud of Will and his hard work and dedication to finding his career passion.
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2021
WILL WILLIAMS
During his Senior year, Alex interned with Oakwood Tire to gain more mechanic skills. He worked 20+ hours a week in a non-paid role in order to get his foot in the door and make a good impression.
Alex’s boss and President of Oakwood Tire, Mike Robertson, states the following, “Oakwood Tire is so thankful that Alex Ibarra was part of the Work-based Learning Program at Chestatee High school. When he was in school he came and worked very hard and was eager to learn. I told him to keep it up and we would let him work this summer. He did and now has become a very good employee for us at Oakwood Tire. Alex is continuing to learn more about the automotive industry . He has applied and been accepted to Lanier Tech in their auto mechanics program. His plans are to work here and go to school (which we are gladly providing a scholarship for). We at Oakwood Tire are very happy to have him as part of our team and are happy with the partnership we have with the high schools and with Work-based Learning. We are looking forward to hosting more interns in the future!”
-Mike Robertson
President, Oakwood Tire
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2020
ALEX IBARRA
Jackson completed the engineering Pathway in high school where he concentrated in mechanical engineering. He was awarded the Engineering Student of the Year award for WHHS. He combined his knowledge of engineering and love of diesel mechanics to decide on the career of becoming a diesel mechanic. Jackson served his internship his senior year with United Auto Care in Flowery Branch.
Jackson is still working with United Auto Care while he is pursuing a degree in Diesel Equipment Technologies from Lanier Technical College.
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2020
JACKSON SWAFFORD
Jahayra is a 2020 graduate of North Hall High School. During high school she completed the Allied Heath Pathway and served an internship at NGHS where she rotated through several departments at the hospital.
Jahayra found her passion for emergency medicine while serving in the ER and credits the Work-Based Learning program for providing the opportunity to affirm her aspirations of becoming a doctor. She is currently majoring in biology at the University of North Georgia and plans to pursue medical school. Jahayra uses the skills she learned through her internship to serve others as a volunteer at Good News Clinic.
NORTH HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2020
JAHAYRA VALDOVINOS
During his time at North Hall, Noah completed courses in Welding and Agriculture where he discovered his passion for mechanics. As a senior, he was hired on as an apprentice with Kubota and quickly progressed through mastering multiple sub-assembly stations. Noah was awarded the North Hall Work-Based Learning Student of the Year for 2020 for his positive attitude, performance on the job, and willingness to teach others. After graduation Noah stayed on at Kubota and has been promoted to a floater position in engine assembly. The partnership between WBL and Kubota has provided him with opportunities to grow towards a leadership role. Noah is currently working towards his goal of becoming a supervisor.
NORTH HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2020
NOAH YOUNG
Luke and Matthew worked for Gerald Palmer Fencing in Cleveland during Work-Based Learning. They took their skilled learned and decided to start a business of their own!
L&M Fencing is thriving and constantly growing. Their specialty is fiberglass fencing but they install all types of fencing as well. They have purchased tractors and skid steers to expand their business and they recently traveled to Texas to complete some contract work.
On top of being young business owners, the boys are working on their education at Lanier Tech. Luke is finishing up his Diesel Tech Diploma and Matthew is working on his Electrician Diploma.
NORTH HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2020
MATTHEW & LUKE GUNTER
Beau Millwood completed his WBL Internship at Atlanta Rehabilitation and Performance Center
He attended Georgia Southwestern University 2019’ and was a part of the
Men’s Tennis Team and was the President of Sigma Chi. He served as the treasurer GSW Nursing Association. He is now working in the
Critical Care Unit at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center. CCRN, MSN, BSN
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2019
BEAU MILLWOOD
SERGIO ALCALA
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2019
Sergio Alcala is a 2019 graduate of Chestatee High School who completed the pathway in architecture and construction. During his Senior year Sergio went to work for Kubota KMA Manufacturing. Upon graduation Sergio signed to go straight to work with Kubota through their apprenticeship program while he was enrolled in Lanier Tech for the Architecture/ Drafting program. Sergio currently works at Kubota as a department manager where he oversees many employees, some of who are current high school WBL interns. We are proud of Sergio and all he has accomplished and look forward to seeing where else life takes him!
Lauren completed the pharmacy Pathway in high school where she earned certifications in CPR and BLS. Lauren served her internship with the Longstreet Clinic in the pharmacy.
Upon high school graduation, Lauren was offered a paid position with the pharmacy at Longstreet. While working, she earned her Pharmacy Technician certificate from the University of North Georgia. Lauren is still attending UNG as she is currently pursuing a pre-pharmacy degree. Lauren plans to become a pharmacist.
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2019
LAUREN IVARIE
TANNER WILSON
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2019
Tanner was a pathway completer in Construction in high school. He completed his WBL internship with Carroll Daniel Construction. Tanner was awarded an apprenticeship with Carroll Daniel where he continued to work for the company while attending Lanier Tech to earn his degree in Field Engineering.
Tanner earned his degree in 2021 and now works full-time with Carroll Daniel as a field engineer.
Jacob completed the Emergency Medical Responders Pathway in high school where he earned certifications in CPR, BLS and Emergency Medical Response. Jacob served his internship with the Hall County Fire Department.
Upon high school graduation, Jacob continued with the fire department and graduated from the Hall County Fire Fighter's Academy. He is now a full time fire fighter with HCFS.
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2019
JACOB BRITT
ALFREDO ORTIZ
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2018
Alfredo was a pathway completer in Healthcare Science in high school. He earned several certifications in high school including CPR and EMR. He served his WBL internship at Northeast Georgia Medical Center where he currently works as a patient transport technician.
Alfredo is a student at the University of North Georgia and is in the nursing program. He plans to complete his degree and pursue a career in nursing.
GRACIE CHARLTON
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2018
Through the Work-Based Learning program at FBHS, Gracie interned at Chestnut Mountain Animal Hospital as a vet tech. She is currently studying Biology at the University of North Georgia, and wants to attend the University of Georgia’s veterinary school to become a Vet.
She still works at Chestnut Mountain Animal Hospital and has been promoted to vet assistant. Gracie states: "Having started this job so early has benefited me in the hours of experience I need to attend vet school in the future. I have even started to pick up shifts at my local animal ER (after day practice hours). At the ER I have learned that it is important to be fast but efficient with every patient that walks through the door. The ER environment is completely different than day practice and that is another reason I enjoy working at the ER, too.
I am so glad that WBL encouraged me to find a place to work at that would benefit me in the future."
Trey completed the Construction Pathway in high school and served his internship at Northeast Georgia Rentals where he worked maintaining equipment.
Upon high school graduation, Trey was offered a full-time position with Northeast Georgia Rentals.
His boss, Brian English, commented that Trey is an incredible asset to their business and they are grateful for their continued partnership with Work-Based Learning.
TREY PLACEK
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2018
Tyler and Anthony both participated in the Work-Based Learning program at FBHS with a concentration in Marketing. These two young men are enterprising entrepreneurs, who opened their own business in April, 2019.
Their business, Clean Canz, is a trash bin liner subscription service. Their main goal is to eliminate the smell and disease from large sanitation trash bins. They sell 95 gallon trash bags that fit into any sanitation trash bin, along with rubber bands to keep the bag in place. These two young men began shipping their product out of their houses, but business has grown to the point that they now have a warehouse in Buford. Check out their business at www.cleancanz.com!
TYLER BLAYLOCK
Class of 2018
ANTHONY GRUTADAURIO
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
BAYLON MITCHELL
NORTH HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2017
Baylon participated in Honor’s level courses and also completed the STEM pathway at NHHS. At the end of his Junior year, he applied for an internship with IMS Gear in Gainesville, Georgia.
The IMS Gear internship during his Senior year, provided valuable experience and direction for his future. Baylon is now a part of the Apprenticeship program at IMS Gear. He continues to work and learn on-the-job, while pursuing a post-secondary degree that is being paid for by his employer.
ANDREW HOFFMAN
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2017
Andrew was a pathway completer in construction in high school. He is a current employee at Carroll Daniel Construction.
He is a student at Gwinnett Technical College and is enrolled in the mentorship program through Carroll Daniel in which the company provides his tuition.
NATALIE RUIZ
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2017
Natalie is a Healthcare Science Pathway Completer. She completed her Internship at Atlanta Rehab and Performance center. She is a 2021 graduate of University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics- Nutrition.
She now works as a Georgia Health Department WIC Nutritionist and counsels pregnant/post-partum women, infants, and children on their nutrition
COURTNEY MILUM
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2017
Courtney Smith Milum is a 2017 Graduate of Chestatee High School where she completed the Healthcare Science Pathway. During her time in the Work-Based Learning Program, Courtney was an intern with Northeast Georgia Medical Center where she rotated through eight different departments to discover her career likes and dislikes.
After graduating from Chestatee High School, Courtney went on to study nursing at Truett McConnell College. Courtney graduated with her BSN in 2021. Courtney is now an ICU Nurse at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. She credits her time in the WBL program for allowing her the opportunity to network and decide on the career path that was best for her.
ALONDRA CHAGOYA
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2017
Alondra is a Healthcare Science Pathway Completer and completed her
Internship at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. She is a 2018 graduate of North Georgia Nursing Academy with a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Alondra is a CNA in the Woody Stewart Heart Failure Unit at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Alondra has been working as a CNA for three years. The unit she works on is actually one of the locations where she served an internship rotation during the 2016-2017 year. Alondra was selected as November 2020 Employee of the Month.
KIMBERLY AREVELO
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2017
Through the WBL program, Kimberly interned at Spout Springs Elementary School, where her duties included providing remediation for children as needed, working with small groups and providing assistance in the classroom.
Upon graduation from high school, Kimberly received a full scholarship to UNG through the RISE program, and she is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. Additionally, Kimberly works part-time as a parapro with Tadmore Elementary School. Congratulations Kimberly on your success!
CARSON NEGLEY
NORTH HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2017
In high school Carson studied Marketing and began working as an administrative assistant with Cory Clark Electric as her WBL placement.
Carson states “I would say that my WBL experience did play a part in my decision when I was debating on what to study in college. I knew I wanted to go in the direction of business and I thought majoring in Marketing would be a great way to encompass business and my creativity. I really enjoyed having the experience from WBL to put me in a real world situation before I was in college. It gave me confidence as I was going into classes about business at the college level, because I had learned several things about business through Cory. I learned both electrical related things through my time doing WBL with Cory, but I also learned aspects of the accounting and management that went into his business.”
JESSICA BERLINER
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2017
Jessica Berliner had a career focus of Marketing and Management. During her time at CHS, she was the marketing manager work-based learning intern for the School Based Enterprise where she worked alongside her mentor to learn management styles, sales strategies and inventory. Jessica also competed at the region, state and national level in the CTSO DECA.
Upon graduating she went on to pursue a degree from the University of North Georgia with a degree in Business Management, she graduated in 2021. During her time at UNG she was awarded 4th place overall out of 2,177 competitors from 39 other universities in a virtual sales competition through RNMKRS.Org. She was recently hired for a sales position with a local company where she will continue to use skills that she has learned to establish a career that she discovered she was interested in, while being an intern through the WBL Program.
SHELBY PALMER
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2016
Shelby Palmer is a 2016 Chestatee High School graduate who completed her internship working alongside special education students at local schools. After high school, Shelby earned her degree in Interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in health and human studies and social sciences from the University of North Georgia. Shelby currently works as a special education teacher at Chestatee High School and as an assistant softball coach after passing the Special Education GACE assessment. Shelby has always had a heart for this population of students and we are thrilled she came back “home” to share her passion with the students at Chestatee!
MELISSA SIERRA
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2016
Melissa is a 2016 FBHS graduate. She completed her HC pathway and interned at Mundy Mill Dental as a YAP Completer.
Melissa Graduated from Ga State University in May with a Degree in Dental Hygiene. She is now the New Patient Coordinator at Smile Doctors in Flowery Branch
CODY MARTIN
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2016
Cody was enrolled in the Construction Pathway courses (I, II). He completed his Internship at B & E Machine 2015-2016. He is a 2019 UNG graduate with Associates of Engineering and went on to become a 2022 graduate of Kennesaw State University with
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology.
Cody works at Mars Wrigley as a ‘Continuous Improvement Specialist’ where he works to improve current manufacturing processes and machines in order to make production more efficient. Cody says that this role aligns exactly with his degree practices.
HANNAH MCQUEEN
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2016
Hannah McQueen is a 2016 graduate of Flowery Branch and served her
WBL Internship at Shane’s Rib Shack in 2015-2016.
Hannah is a Honors Teaching Assistant at UGA, an Ambassador for the Franklin College of Arts & Sciences, an undergrad lab assist and is pursuing a B.S. in Biology. She is studying for the MCAT & applying for Medical school.
ERIKA FREEMAN
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2016
Erika Freeman is a 2016 graduate of Flowery Branch High School. She served her WBL internship at Chateau Animal Hospital. After a few months, CAH offered her a part-time paying position.
Erika graduated in 2020 from Athens Technical College with Associates Degree in Veterinary Technology and is still working with Chateau Animal Hospital.
MADISON PHILLIPS
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2016
Madison completed the Healthcare Science pathway in high school. She served her internship at Riverside Pharmacy where she is currently still employed.
Madison is a student at the University of North Georgia where she has passed the exam to become a Pharmacy Technician. Upon graduation Madison plans to pursue a career as a pharmacist.
CONNOR WESTMORELAND
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2016
Connor completed the Healthcare Science Pathway in high school and served his internship at The Longstreet Clinic.
Connor was later offered a position in the pharmacy at The Longstreet Clinic where he is still employed. He is currently a student at the University of North Georgia and is studying pre-pharmacy. He plans to become a pharmacist upon graduation.
Beau completed the Healthcare Science pathway in high school. He did her internship at Atlanta Rehab and Performance.
Beau attended Georgia Southwestern University and is a graduate of the Honors Nursing Program. He is currently employed at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in the Critical Care Unit
BEAU MILLWOOD
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
YADIRA HERNANDEZ
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
Yadira is an ECE pathway completer. She served a WBL internship at Myers Elementary School in third grade. She is currently enrolled at University of North Georgia where she participates in a co-op program where she works part-time as a bilingual (Spanish/English) para-professional and takes early childhood education classes at UNG.
Yadira’s WBL mentor at Myers, recommended her for the para-professional position and she was hired!
Asher served a 2014-2015 Kipper Tool, marketing internship and a 2013--2014 WLA 6th Gr. ELA for English Language Learners teaching internship. He is a
2020 graduate of University of North Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education with concentration in Science and Social Studies.
Asher teaches physical science at Dalton Middle School and is co-founder of a specialty coffee roasting company in Dalton.
ASHER GRIFFITH
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
KATELYN HOPKINS
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
Katelyn Tuner Hopkins is a 2015 graduate of Chestatee High School. Katelyn’s career focus was on Healthcare. During her time in the Work-Based Learning Program Katelyn interns with Northeast Georgia Medical Center where she rotated through eight different departments to learn the daily tasks and pressures of an Registered Nurse.
Katelyn went on to complete her RN degree from Brenau University. Katelyn is currently employed with Northeast Georgia Medical Center and gives credit to her time in WBL for allowing her to decide on her specific career passion.
BLAKE GRIFFIN
EAST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
Brock served his placement at Champion Aviation where he is currently employed and he is attending UNG in Gainesville. Brock began working on obtaining his private pilot's license at the Gainesville Airport and already has charter companies offering him a position once he earns his ratings.
He recently shared this with me, " I would not have been able to do it without you and WBL. Thanks for all of the help and patience you had with me."
Jacob Mercer was an active member of the band while in high school. He served his WBL Internship at FBHS under our Band Director in 2014-2015.
Jacob went on to earn a B.S in Music Education from Reinhardt University. He is currently the Band Director at North Cobb HS.
JACOB MERCER
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
While in High School, Chelsea was a part of the Work Based Learning program and worked at Georgia Smile Team. She went on to attend Brenau University and played softball while pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science Degree and graduated in 2019.
She is now a Dental Assistant at an Endodontist office in Gainesville. She is currently enrolled and working on her Master’s degree in Healthcare Management and will graduate in May 2022.
CHELSEA BUFFINGTON
EAST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
GRACIE BRASSELTON
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
Savannah completed her internship at Spout Springs Elementary School. She graduated from Piedmont College with a Bachelor's of Science in Early Childhood Education.
Gracie is pursuing a teaching position in the Hall County School district.
Savannah completed the Healthcare Science pathway in high school. She did her internship at the Longstreet Clinic in Gainesville.
Savannah attended Gwinnett Tech where she earned her CCMA certification. She is now employed with North Atlanta Dermatology.
SAVANNAH NICHOLSON
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
Madison was a FBHS graduate of 2015. She was enrolled in the healthcare science courses and served her WBL Internship at NGHS Hospital Rotation in 2013-2015. She graduated from Piedmont College in 2019 with a BSN as a registered nurse. While working she is enrolled in Grad School at Piedmont
Madison is a Critical Care Unit nurse at Northeast Georgia Medical Center and a Charge Nurse at the Oaks at Limestone
MADISON SAXON HOAGUE
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
This is my first year as a 5th grade teacher at Tadmore Elementary. I teach Reading, Writing, and Social Studies. I am a product of the Hall County School System and a graduate of East Hall High School. I graduated from the University of North Georgia in 2019 with my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood and Special Education. I have a Reading endorsement and an upper grades English certification.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my fiance, family, and friends.
MADISON BROWN
EAST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2015
ANDREW TODD
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2014
Andrew served his WBL internship at Channel 18, the Government channel in Gainesville. He is now a full-time Technical Support Specialist II at the University of North Georgia's Oconee campus. His job duties consist of everything involving the Audio-Visual on this campus. He provide classroom support, video conferencing support, and event support. Andrew also works in North Oconee’s new Convocation center/arena that can hold up to 4,000 people. He operates the cameras, audio, and video switcher for the list of events: commencements, basketball games, concerts, and special events.
LUIS MARTINEZ
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2014
Luiz completed the construction pathway in high school and was also a member of the Habitat High Program. He served his internship at Metro Power where he is currently still employed as an apprentice.
Cassidy Buffington participated in the Work-Based Learning program as a hospital intern with Northeast Georgia Health Systems. In December of 2018 Cassidy graduated from the University of North Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Cassidy has accepted an externship with Northside Cherokee Hospital where she will be working in Labor and Delivery.
CASSIDY BUFFINGTON
EAST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2014
DANIELLE RITCHY BROWN
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2014
Danielle Richey Brown is a 2014 graduate of Chestatee High School. While at Chestatee, Danielle completed the healthcare science pathway, was an active member in HOSA and participated in a WBL internship with Northeast Georgia Medical Center where she explored different areas of this profession. Upon graduating, Danielle attended Mercer University where she received her B.S.N. Danielle then furthered her skill set and received her Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing Certification from The National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric, Gynecologic and Neonatal Specialties Association.
Danielle currently resides in Gainesville with her husband and works at Northside Hospital Gwinnett in the NICU Unit!
FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL
Annalise was a student in the Healthcare Science pathways and served her WBL Internship at NGHS Rotation 2013-2014 & Longstreet Clinic rotation in 2014-2015.
Annalise attended Charleston Southern University and graduated in 2019 with a BSN degree as a registered nurse. She is now employed as a
Registered Nurse at East Cooper Medical Center in Charleston, SC
ANNALISE TAGGART
Class of 2014
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Lauren is a Healthcare Science pathway completer who served her internship at Kids Health Pediatrics, Gainesville, Georgia. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Science of Nursing (BSN), from Brenau University in 2018
Lauren works as an RN and is employed by Northeast Georgia Health Services. Her first department to work in was at the Gainesville hospital on 5-East, which is a medical-surgical floor with pulmonary, oncology, and hospice patients. She is currently working at the Braselton hospital location in the radiation oncology department.
LAUREN SMITH
Class of 2013
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Sydney Duckworth (Creamer) is a 2013 graduate of Chestatee High School and was an intern through the Work-Based Learning Program. During her time in WBL, she worked at Plato’s Closet and was promoted to a Manager. Sydney went on to obtain her Communication Degree. She is now owner of Loveleigh Company, a local photography business. Sydney states, “Being in a management position at a young age was wonderful preparation for owning a business. You learn what to do, what not to do, and how you can improve each day. It ultimately taught me responsibility, time management how to stay dedicated, how to maintain a leadership role while working alongside others as well as simply navigating schedules and diversifying my time and skills. I am thankful for my time in the WBL program, it helped to prepare me for my career today.”
Sydney resides in Gainesville with her husband and son. Visit her website to learn more about her success: www.loveleighco.com
SYDNEY DUCKWORTH
Class of 2013
CASSIE KORNSTADT
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2013
Cassie is a Healthcare Science pathway completer who served her internship with Hall County Schools in Occupational Therapy. She graduated from Augusta State University.
Cassie is currently employed at Floyd Medical Center as an occupational therapist who specializes in working with patients recovering from strokes.
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Alex Hall is a 2013 graduate of Chestatee High School. During Alex’s time in the Work-Based Learning Program Alex completed the fine arts pathway in the area of Music. He then went on to be a Work-Based Learning intern at Chestatee Academy where he worked alongside the Chorus teacher, in addition to being mentored by a vocal coach out of Atlanta. Throughout high school Alex aspired to be a country music singer. Alex currently lives in Nashville, with his wife and new born baby where he is thriving in the Country Music Industry. He has recently played at the Grand Old Opry, written songs with well-known song writers and performs at various venues across the nation. We are so proud of this Chestatee and WBL Alumni for working hard and never giving up on his dreams. We are excited to see where his talent and drive takes him next!
ALEX HALL
Class of 2013
KAYLYNN SAMPLES
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2013
KayLynn Samples is a 2013 graduate of Chestatee High School and was named the GeorgiaBEST student of the year where she received a $5,000 scholarship. She was a Marketing Pathway completer and the School Store manager. During her time in the WBL program, KayLynn worked for Get Gifted and Meeting and Events at LCCA, Lake Lanier Islands and the Hall County Government Office. Upon graduation, KayLynn attended Brenau University where she graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication with a Minor in Public Relations. KayLynn currently works for Hall County Schools where she serves as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator for North Hall High School. KayLynn contributes her time in WBL and the CTAE courses in High School for her reason to wanting to become an educator. She said her opportunities to explore many different careers made an impact on her and now she wants to do the same for her students.
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Patty Bautista is a 2012 graduate of Chestatee High School. While Patty was in High School she was enrolled in both the Business and Early Childhood education courses as she was exploring different career options. Her Junior and Senior year, Patty was in the Work-Based Learning program as a business intern. After high school, Patty attended the University of North Georgia where she graduated with her BBA in Management. With her degree, she started working in the Human Resource field as a client services specialist. She quickly moved her way up and became the HR Specialist for Construction Resources. After some time in that role, she was promoted to the Corporate Recruiter position for the same company. She has now worked for Construction Resources for over four years.
PATTTY BAUTISTA
Class of 2012
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Taylor Wilson was a Fashion Marketing pathway completer and is now the proud owner of a Gainesville boutique, Gypsy Threads. While in high school Taylor helped manage the Chestatee School Based Enterprise where she learned basic entrepreneurial skills. Taylor also competed at the region and state level in the Marketing Organization, DECA. Taylor went on to study at the University of North Georgia where she obtained her Business Marketing degree. In addition to owning and operating Gypsy Threads, located on the Gainesville Square, she is also the co-owner of a Georgia based creative group, specializing in social media, marketing, photography + graphic design, called RT creative group. Taylor continues to be a proud supporter of the Chestatee Work-Based Learning program and mentors interns who are interested in fashion, marketing and photography.
TAYLOR WILSON
Class of 2011
CLAIRE CRAIN
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2011
Claire participated in the Work-Based Learning Program during her junior and senior years as a nurse intern with Northeast Georgia Health Systems
She graduated from Shorter University Brady School of Nursing in May of 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
She currently works as a registered nurse at WellStar North Fulton Hospital on the Surgical floor
HANNA WHITMIRE
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2011
Hanna served her WBL Internship in 2010-2011 at Helm’s Dental Office. She is a 2019 graduate of Athens Technical College with an Associate Degree of Dental Hygiene.
Hanna now works as a dental hygienist at BGW Dental Group.
ZACH HALL
WEST HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2009
Zach is a Healthcare Science pathway completer who served his internship with the Hall County Fire Services department. He graduated from Lanier Technical College.
Zach is currently employed at Northeast Georgia Medical Center and Hall County Fire Services where he is an ER paramedic.
ROXY MILLER
NORTH HALL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2009
Roxie took classes in the Education pathway and also completed an Internship at a local preschool.
She is now a graduate of the University of North Georgia and is employed by Hall County Schools. She is a 2nd grade teacher at Riverbend Elementary and serves as a Mentor to a current WBL student.
CHRISTIN LEE
CHESTATEE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2009
Christin Samples Lee is a 2009 graduate of Chestatee High School. During her time at CHS Christin was a Work-Based Learning intern with Northeast Georgia Medical Center where her career goal was a neonatal nurse practitioner. However, after completing her internship with Northeast Georgia Medical, Christin decided that she wanted to focus on Oncology.
Christin went on to graduate from Kennesaw Nursing School with her BSN in 2013. She then graduated from Vanderbilt with her MSN in 2018. Since graduation Christin has held many jobs in the healthcare industry. She has been a tech at NGHS and Oncology RN at NGHS and WellStar Kennestone. Today, Christin works at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University Midtown, where she specializes in GI cancers and head and neck cancers. She is also the adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner at Emory University. Christin credits the Work-Based Learning program with helping her to decide what specific career in healthcare she wanted to pursue.
Jamie is a Healthcare Science pathway completer who served his internship at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in orthopedic surgery. He graduated from Mercer University.
Jamie is currently employed at Piedmont Hospital where he is physician's assistant in Cardiothoracic Surgery.