46 S G M A G A Z I N E | FA L L 2 0 1 8 standards in eight additional programs: Pharmacy Technology, Associate Degree in Nursing, Radiologic Technology, Medical Assisting, Paramedicine Associate Degree, Emergency Medical Services Professions, Automotive Fundamentals Diploma, and Automotive Technology Diploma. Wiregrass Tech is one of 22 institutions within the Technical College System of Georgia that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools-Commission on Colleges. “We go through the very rigorous process of accreditation for our students,” Anderson said. “I do not want any of our students to be denied a job because one of our programs was not accredited.” Anderson explained that within some professions, for example, nursing, accreditation is required to offer the program. “It is easier not to go through an accreditation process, but not better,” said Anderson. “Accreditation is that extra piece that identifies a program as having met a very high standard, and this is especially important when a student starts looking for a job. Employers in this area know that a Wiregrass student is well trained within their area of study.” A Dream Job When asked what is her favorite part about being president of Wiregrass Tech, Anderson replied with enthusiasm, “Without a doubt, it is the students.” Anderson has many reasons to be proud. Wiregrass Tech students recently received the most medals among Georgia colleges represented at the 54th Annual SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference. More than 6,300 students competed in 102 different trade, technical, and leadership fields. “This is a great opportunity for our students,” Anderson said. “They not only get an opportunity to showcase their skills but often receive job offers.” Andersons said finding a job is the ultimate goal. “Our mission is workforce development. The entire reason we exist is to provide businesses and industries with skilled employees.” Team Wiregrass When Anderson talks about the success of Wiregrass Tech, she is quick to give credit to Wiregrass Tech’s faculty and staff. “It is not necessary for me to know how to run every department,” said Anderson, “but it is vital that I have a team of people who can advise me. I consider my senior staff and faculty as leaders. They are all leaders; it is their job to provide expertise within their area.” Anderson said her responsibility is to guide a collaborative effort. “We are a team,” she said. “I never make an important decision until I have first discussed it with my senior staff. I ask the question, ‘How will this decision impact someone else or another department?’ It is not that I cannot make the decision, but I do not want to decide until I have first talked to those who have expertise in that area.” With the mindset of a servant, Anderson regards her responsibility as that of a caretaker. “This job does not give me the freedom to do what I want to do; it gives me the responsibility to do what I should,” Anderson said. “I take that responsibility very seriously, and it is never far from my thoughts. What I try to remember is we are servants of Georgia’s taxpayers. They expect me, and my team, to be honest, have the highest integrity, work hard, and show positive results. I never want to forget that responsibility.” WHO WILL REPRESENT TEAM SOUTH GEORGIA 2019? Do you know someone who is making an impact in your community? If so, we invite you to nominate them for Team South Georgia 2019. We will once again seek nominations of individuals representing a variety of areas including agriculture, business and industry, chambers of commerce, economic development, education, government, healthcare, leadership development, public service, tourism, community service, and the arts. Nominations will be accepted beginning March 2019, with Team South Georgia 2019 members named in the fall issue of South Georgia Business + Culture Magazine. www.sgamag.com