From Charlotte County, Virginia, Cody Tharpe graduated high school from Fuqua School before earning his 
Associate of Arts and Sciences in General Studies from Southside Virginia Community College.

After graduating from SVCC, Cody transferred to Longwood University and completed a bachelor's degree in Business with a minor in Supply Chain Management.  He has been employed by CWT, Inc., a company that supplies mulch and topsoil supplier, as well as contract hauling, located in Drakes Branch, Virginia.  His current position at the company is as Sales Manager, Wood Procurement Officer, and Quality Control Officer.  He also successfully introduced a new product, colored mulch, to the company's sales offerings that are currently in production.

As a successful SVCC degree graduate, Cody urges students to explore all programs offered at the college.  "There are tons of jobs and opportunities out there for specific trades and for people willing to learn and master those occupations. My company is always interested in trained and qualified truck drivers, welders, and mechanics.  Southside has many wonderful programs to help students prepare for either work or furthering their education. "