From Apprenticeship to Engineer:

Christian Johnson's Journey

Revving the engine of his 1967 Ford Mustang Coupe, young Christian was featured in a Workforce Development focused video by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce years ago. Where is he now? Christian is a Manufacturing Engineer at IMS Gear in Gainesville, GA. He handles product optimization, working on machines and shop management. His passion for engineering began in high school, thanks to a teacher who pointed out the potential of an apprenticeship. Initially skeptical, he found the hands-on experience and debt-free education too good to pass up. In 2016, after completing the apprenticeship and his associate's degree in Industrial Systems and Technology from Lanier Technical College, Christian began his career. Now, with nearly eight years at IMS Gear, his goal is to continue advancing in the engineering field...and to add to his Mustang collection.

These students successfully finished a 48-hour series of eight topics curated by local industry leaders. They learned practical lessons for both work and everyday life. Fall registration is now open.

"I'm going to use what I've been taught on a daily basis to become a more effective manager. I am and will continue to use my book as a tool to help myself and my employees," says Joey, a recent LEAD graduate.