Georgia’s Technical College Commissioner Outlines AI and Workforce Goals

Greg Dozier, the commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), addressed the Marietta Rotary Club this week, focusing on the system’s commitment to equipping individuals with essential skills for successful careers. The TCSG oversees 22 technical colleges across Georgia, aiming to enhance economic opportunities for residents through education and workforce development.

Dozier, appointed by Governor Brian Kemp in January 2020, highlighted the system’s robust annual budget of over $1.1 billion and its significant impact on the community. In 2024, TCSG reported serving 538,164 individuals, with a record enrollment of 148,000 students—the highest since 2013. “Our mission is to truly make sure we have a globally competitive workforce for the state of Georgia,” Dozier stated.

Five Pillars of Workforce Development

The TCSG focuses on five key areas: technical education, adult education, economic development, workforce services, and the Quick Start program. Each pillar is designed to help individuals prepare for and secure meaningful employment. The Quick Start program offers free training services to businesses in Georgia, allowing new companies to access educational resources through the Department of Economic Development.

“Any new company coming to the state of Georgia gets a chance to qualify through the Department of Economic Development for Quick Start services,” Dozier explained.

During the presentation, a club member, Sandeep Kapoor, inquired about the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into technical education. Dozier responded that technical colleges are actively incorporating AI into their learning programs. “We’re looking at how AI can enhance instruction, tutoring, and how we administer student use of AI,” he noted. He also mentioned that curriculum development is underway, particularly in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and cybersecurity.

Kapoor expressed his satisfaction with Dozier’s insights. “I was very surprised in a positive way that they are considering AI as it impacts the careers and how the graduates are going to come out of the careers being able to work in a field where AI can be incorporated,” he said.

Financial Support for High-Demand Careers

Another audience member questioned the possibility of free tuition for technical schools. Dozier indicated that for high-demand career paths, including construction, education, nursing, and cybersecurity, tuition may be covered by the HOPE Career Grant. This grant aims to increase the workforce in sectors experiencing labor shortages and is based on skill rather than academic performance. “It is not GPA oriented. It is purely a skill-oriented grant opportunity,” Dozier emphasized.

Reflecting on his role, he stated, “I couldn’t be more proud to be part of an agency and a group of folks whose everyday mission is to change the communities and the lives in our community.” Dozier’s commitment to enhancing workforce readiness through education and technology underscores the TCSG’s pivotal role in shaping Georgia’s economic landscape.