Date Posted: March 18, 2026
SCTC continues to strengthen its commitment to workforce development and community impact through meaningful industry engagement. Representatives from SCTC’s Economic Development team joined local city officials on a visit to Brightmark’s Circularity Center in Ashley, Indiana, gaining firsthand insight into an innovative manufacturing operation rooted in sustainability and community partnership.
The visit highlighted Brightmark’s advanced approach to plastic recycling, as well as the company’s intentional investment in the communities it serves. From collaborations with local schools and government partners to job creation, workforce training, and support of local events, Brightmark exemplifies how industry can play a vital role in building strong, resilient communities.
“These types of experiences directly inform the work we are doing at Southern Crescent Technical College,” said Richard Andrews, VP of Economic Development. “As we continue developing the Regional Advanced Automation and Mechatronics Education (RAAME) Center, seeing Brightmark’s integration of advanced manufacturing, sustainability, and workforce partnerships reinforces our mission to prepare students for real-world industrial environments through hands-on, industry-aligned training.”
The RAAME Center is designed to equip students with the technical skills needed to succeed in modern manufacturing careers while supporting regional economic growth. Industry models like Brightmark provide valuable insight as SCTC works to align education with current and future workforce needs.
Jessica Hudson, Brightmark’s Community Relations Specialist, emphasized the importance of collaboration, “At Brightmark, we believe strong communities are built through partnership,” said Hudson. “We’re proud to work alongside Southern Crescent Technical College and local leaders to create opportunities for students and support the future workforce in our region.”
Southern Crescent Technical College extends sincere appreciation to Bob Powell, founder and CEO of Brightmark, and his team for hosting the visit and openly sharing their vision and operations. The college looks forward to exploring future opportunities with Brightmark to support workforce development programs connected to RAAME and emerging manufacturing pathways. Special thanks are also extended to Slade Gulledge, Executive Director of the Industrial Development Authority of Upson County, for the invitation and for convening leaders to experience this impactful model firsthand.
“This is what strong alignment between industry, education, and community looks like,” said Andrews. “And it’s exactly the model we are building through RAAME.”
As the RAAME Center continues to take shape, Southern Crescent Technical College is proud to collaborate with forward-thinking industry partners like Brightmark to develop innovative training solutions that prepare students for the future of advanced manufacturing.