About GPTC
- At a Glance
- Accreditation
- Board of Directors
- Careers
- Faculty & Staff Directory
- Foundation
- Our History
- Message from the President
- Statement of Equal Opportunity
- Student Achievement
- Vision, Mission & Goals
- Why Georgia Piedmont Technical College?
- Contact Us
- News & Updates
- Annual Reports & Documents
- Calendar of Events
- News
College History
Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) has a long and distinguished history of providing technical education to the people of Georgia. From its founding in 1961 as DeKalb Area Technical School, the college has grown into a prominent institution, serving thousands of students each year. GPTC has been dedicated to creating pathways to success for its students by offering career-focused education and workforce development.
Founding and Early Years (1961-1980s)
Georgia Piedmont Technical College began as DeKalb Area Technical School in 1961. Its primary goal was to offer specialized technical training for individuals seeking employment in emerging industries. The school’s first location was in a former elementary school building in DeKalb County, offering a limited range of vocational programs. Over the next two decades, the institution rapidly expanded to meet the growing demand for technical training.
By the 1980s, the school had established itself as a key player in workforce development, and it continued to broaden its program offerings. It also became a critical resource for businesses and industries in the region looking for a skilled workforce.
Growth and Expansion (1990s-2000s)
In the 1990s, the school saw significant growth. The name was changed to DeKalb Technical College to reflect its broader regional focus and continued expansion. The college added new campuses and programs, strengthening its mission of providing affordable, accessible, and high-quality education. During this period, the school began offering more advanced technical certifications and expanded its student services to meet the needs of a growing and diverse student population.
The 2000s marked the beginning of even more significant changes. DeKalb Technical College broadened its service area, and the school made considerable advancements in technology and online learning. In 2007, the college's service area expanded to include the neighboring counties of Rockdale and Morgan, enabling more students to access programs close to home.
College Name Evolution
Throughout its history, Georgia Piedmont Technical College has undergone several name changes to better reflect its expanding role in the community. These changes reflect the college’s evolution from a small vocational school to a comprehensive technical college serving a wide region.
- 1961: DeKalb Area Technical School
- 1988: DeKalb Technical College
- 2014: Georgia Piedmont Technical College
The name change to Georgia Piedmont Technical College in 2014 highlighted the college’s role as a leader in workforce development for the entire Piedmont region of Georgia. The new name also marked the college’s expanding offerings in career training and degree programs.
Modern-Day Developments (2010s-Present)
The 2010s saw Georgia Piedmont Technical College enter a new era, expanding its role as a leader in technical education. The college focused on offering innovative programs in fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, reflecting the changing needs of the workforce.
GPTC also invested in state-of-the-art facilities and technology to enhance the learning experience for its students. The college’s campuses and online programs were further expanded, providing access to students throughout Georgia.
In 2021, GPTC celebrated its 60th Anniversary, reflecting on its legacy of empowering students and contributing to the region’s economic growth. Today, Georgia Piedmont Technical College continues to offer programs that meet the demands of the modern workforce, providing students with the skills they need to succeed in the global economy.
Looking Ahead
As Georgia Piedmont Technical College looks to the future, it remains committed to providing students with high-quality, career-focused education. With a focus on innovation and workforce readiness, GPTC is proud to continue its mission of transforming lives through education and training, ensuring that each student is prepared for success in the 21st-century job market.