Quitman County HSHT students toured Dillard’s Department Store and Albany Technical College in Albany, Georgia

Quitman County HSHT students came to Albany for a tour of Dillard’s Department Store and Albany Technical College.  Our first stop was Dillard’s Department Store.  We met with Mrs. Janet Woodward the assistant manager of the store.  She met with us in the training room used for new employees.  Mrs. Woodward talked to the students about what Dillard looks for in a potential employee and skills that are necessary in retail.  She discussed dressing appropriately for the job and fitting in with the environment. 

Mrs. Woodward stressed focusing on the skills they possess during the interview and to know something about the company.  She stated that in retail, math skills and good communication are very important skills to possess.   In regard to post-secondary education, Mrs. Woodward stated that a degree in marketing would benefit them in moving upward in the company. After the training room. We went on a tour where we observed the dock and saw where the trucks deliver goods that are then placed on the sales floor. 

Students then toured Albany Technical College where we met with Regina Watts, Disability Coordinator, for a tour of the school. 
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The students broke into groups to tour their areas of interest.  Ms. Watts took students to the Cosmetology building to tour the facilities and observe the students in action.  Ms. Watts had also arranged for the ATC cosmetology students to answer questions as well as telling our students about their experiences in the program.  The cosmetology program will result in certification for hair, nails and makeup.  However, only one state certification is available which is for hair stylist. 

A different group had a great tour of the welding facility.  They spoke to the head of the department and the assistant department manager.  They explained all of the equipment and showed us student work samples both small and large.  They learned about the market for welders and the flexibility of Albany Tech having both day and evening classes for welding. 

After both groups came back together, we met in the mock courtroom to meet with the instructors for the law enforcement program. The instructors also pointed out to the students that if they are looking for that “college” experience, ATC has a basketball team and cheering squad.  They do not have dorms at the campus but they do partner with Albany State for dorms as they are available.