Building an electric vehicle infrastructure, complete with vehicles and charging stations, is only part of an equation for establishing a viable electric vehicle industry. Just as important is a workforce of trained technicians who understand the technology and can service electric vehicles. Georgia Power is helping meet this challenge by assisting the Georgia Department of Education as it establishes an electric vehicle educational curriculum. The curriculum will target high school students throughout Georgia.

“About $100,000 already has been allocated to implement the electric vehicle training program, and more resources are coming in every day,” said Mike Anderson, Georgia Power’s electric transportation manager. “It’s exciting to see the variety organizations across Georgia become involved in the curriculum.”

The electric vehicle curriculum will broaden students’ knowledge in related disciplines such as principles of technology, physics and auto technology through hands-on experiences. In addition, the curriculum will increase awareness by students and their teachers of technology and local transportation issues.

Participating high schools in the pilot program include Westlake High School in Fulton County, Lovejoy High School in Clayton County, East Hall High School in Hall County, Jackson County High School in Jackson County and Habersham Central in Habersham County.

An electric vehicle curriculum should be available statewide by the fall 2000. Schools opting to participate will be eligible for an innovative program grant from the Georgia Department of Education to purchase the necessary EV-related equipment, teaching materials and training needed to implement the curriculum. Local automotive dealers and battery manufacturers also will be encouraged to donate supplies and services.

“One of the benefits of this program is that it’s a great way to make math and science practical and fun,” said Bud Hughes, automotive technology educator, East Hall High School. “There are only a handful of states currently teaching electric vehicle maintenance, and thanks to Georgia Power, we’re well on our way to establishing such a program here in Georgia.”

Georgia Power is the largest of five operating companies that comprise Southern Company, one of the largest investor-owned electric utility groups in the nation. As part of its commitment to electric vehicles, Georgia Power participates in industry associations at both the national and local levels. For more information on electric vehicles, visit our EV site.