Myrtle Beach, SC, December 25, 2025
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) plays a crucial role in enhancing the workforce in Myrtle Beach through diverse academic programs and robust workforce development initiatives. The college has seen a historic enrollment increase, now serving nearly 11,000 students, and boasts a 95% job placement rate for its graduates. With dedicated efforts in areas like advanced manufacturing and marine technology, HGTC is addressing the skills gap in the region, ensuring that students are well-equipped for the job market while actively contributing to economic growth.
HGTC Powers Myrtle Beach Workforce Growth
Horry-Georgetown Technical College drives regional economic vitality through diverse academic programs and dedicated workforce development initiatives, fostering leadership and community impact across the Grand Strand.
Myrtle Beach, SC — The economic vitality and community fabric of the Grand Strand region are significantly bolstered by institutions dedicated to developing a skilled workforce and fostering individual potential. As Myrtle Beach, incorporated as a town in 1938 and a city in 1957, continues its dynamic growth, the role of higher education, particularly in technical fields, becomes ever more critical. Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC), with its multiple campuses across Myrtle Beach, Conway, and Georgetown, stands as a cornerstone in this educational landscape, emphasizing rigorous academics, student growth, and institutional excellence to meet regional demands. The college’s strategic focus on practical, career-oriented education directly contributes to a robust local economy and empowers individuals to achieve personal responsibility and professional success.
HGTC is an institution that exemplifies dedication to student success and community service, reflecting values of innovation and discipline. The college recently celebrated its largest spring enrollment increase in its history, now serving nearly 11,000 students pursuing degrees or credentials across its three campuses. This growth occurs at a time when many institutions face declining enrollments, highlighting HGTC’s appeal and effectiveness. Furthermore, the college has notably chosen not to increase tuition, prioritizing affordability and accessibility in an environment where educational costs are a significant concern.
A Foundation for Diverse Career Paths
Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers an extensive array of academic programs designed to equip students with the skills needed for immediate employment and long-term career growth. The institution provides over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, catering to a wide spectrum of career interests from business and health sciences to natural resources and information technology. This breadth of offerings ensures that individuals can pursue pathways aligning with their aptitudes and aspirations, fostering a sense of personal responsibility for their educational journey and future. The success of these programs is underscored by an impressive 95% job placement rate for its graduates, a testament to the college’s commitment to preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce.
Beyond traditional programs, HGTC also offers various job training options through its Workforce Development initiatives for individuals seeking immediate employment or wishing to enhance their skills. These options include quick jobs programs, continuing education units, and personal enrichment classes. Such flexibility in educational offerings demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of the region’s diverse population and industries.
Driving Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing
The manufacturing sector is widely recognized as a pivotal force behind economic recovery and sustained prosperity. Recognizing this, HGTC has made substantial investments in advanced manufacturing training, providing cutting-edge facilities to address the demand for highly skilled workers. The college operates a 25,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing center in Conway and a 30,000-square-foot facility in Georgetown. These centers are hubs for specialized programs in Advanced Welding Technologies, Machine Tool Technology, Machine Tool Operations, and Mechatronics Technology.
The Advanced Manufacturing Expansion at HGTC aims to enhance facilities and integrate advanced technologies, boosting students with essential, high-demand skills. These programs prepare students for critical roles such as machinists, tool & die makers, CNC programmers, and quality-control technicians, directly addressing a nationwide shortage of qualified personnel in industrial fields. The Georgetown Center for Advanced Manufacturing, inaugurated in 2019, has already demonstrated a significant influence on the local economy by training a skilled workforce essential to the manufacturing sector.
Harnessing Coastal Resources: The Marine Technology Institute
In a region defined by its coastline, specialized marine technology education is vital. Horry-Georgetown Technical College is unique in South Carolina for offering college-level training in Outboard Marine Technology and Boat Building Technology. The college is further expanding its commitment to this critical sector with the development of a new, state-of-the-art Marine Technology Institute of South Carolina in Georgetown.
This expansion, backed by a $200,000 grant from the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission, is scheduled to commence construction in 2025 and is poised to double the college’s training capacity for certified marine technicians. The Marine Technology program provides specialized training based on industry-expert curriculum and focuses on outboard marine and boat building technologies, equipping students with cutting-edge skills. The Boat Building program, a three-semester curriculum, was launched to address more than 800 job openings projected over the next five years within South Carolina’s 30 boat building companies, underscoring its direct relevance to regional economic needs.
Workforce Development and Community Engagement
HGTC’s dedication extends beyond academic instruction to comprehensive workforce development, aligning with the broader mission of the South Carolina Technical College System, which aims to lead the nation in delivering relevant and effective programs for workforce development. As a full partner with the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation (MBREDC), HGTC offers both free and low-cost training initiatives, directly supporting job creators and contributing to the region’s economic growth.
The college’s impact is visible through various community partnerships and initiatives. For instance, the Technical Scholars Program allows high school students to earn college credit and national certifications in fields such as Cybersecurity, HVAC, Machine Tool Technology, Mechatronics, Nursing, and Teacher Education, providing a proactive pathway to skilled careers. Moreover, HGTC actively supports its students through essential resources like the HGTC Pantry, which provides food and hygiene items, demonstrating a holistic approach to student well-being and academic success.
Impact on South Carolina’s Educational and Economic Ecosystem
Horry-Georgetown Technical College is an indispensable asset to the South Carolina higher education landscape and the state’s economic ecosystem. Its programs are designed to meet specific industry needs, ensuring that graduates are not only academically prepared but also possess practical skills ready for immediate application. This focus helps individuals secure meaningful employment, contribute to tax revenues, and stimulate private sector growth, aligning with the goals of regional economic development bodies like the MBREDC, which strives to expand and diversify the Horry County economy and create well-paying jobs.
The college’s commitment to affordability, accessibility, and relevance, alongside its substantial investment in state-of-the-art facilities like the advanced manufacturing centers and the Marine Technology Institute, positions its students for success in the local economy and beyond. HGTC’s role is not just about education; it is about building a future where disciplined effort leads to opportunity and where a skilled workforce drives regional prosperity.
Conclusion
Horry-Georgetown Technical College continues to be a driving force in the Grand Strand, offering educational pathways that lead to meaningful careers and contribute significantly to regional economic development. By championing innovation, promoting personal responsibility, and delivering relevant, high-quality programs, HGTC stands as a model for how higher education can directly shape a community’s future. From advanced manufacturing to marine technology, the college is equipping students with the essential skills needed to thrive in a dynamic economy, reinforcing Myrtle Beach’s position as a hub for both tourism and skilled industries. We encourage residents, prospective students, and employers to explore the diverse programs and impactful initiatives offered by Horry-Georgetown Technical College and to stay connected with Myrtle Beach SC college news for ongoing updates on how South Carolina higher education is fostering a brighter future.
HGTC Key Programs and Impact
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Campuses | Myrtle Beach, Conway, Georgetown | Local |
| Programs Offered | Over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs | Local |
| Job Placement Rate | 95% for graduates | Local |
| Advanced Manufacturing Centers | 25,000 sq ft (Conway), 30,000 sq ft (Georgetown) | Local |
| Marine Technology Institute | New state-of-the-art facility in Georgetown, with $200,000 grant for expansion, construction in 2025 | Local |
| Workforce Training Focus | Emphasizes training for immediate employment and skill enhancement | Local |
| SC Technical College System Mission | Lead the nation in delivering relevant and effective workforce development programs | State-level |
| Enrollment Growth | Largest spring enrollment increase in college history, nearly 11,000 students | Local |
Frequently Asked Questions About Horry-Georgetown Technical College
- What programs does Horry-Georgetown Technical College offer?
- Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, encompassing diverse fields from business and health sciences to advanced manufacturing and marine technology.
- What is the job placement rate for HGTC graduates?
- HGTC boasts an impressive 95% job placement rate for its graduates, reflecting the effectiveness of its career-oriented programs.
- Where are HGTC campuses located?
- Horry-Georgetown Technical College has campuses situated in Myrtle Beach, Conway, and Georgetown, providing accessibility across the Grand Strand region.
- What specialized facilities does HGTC have for technical training?
- HGTC features a 25,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing center in Conway and a 30,000-square-foot facility in Georgetown. It is also developing a new, state-of-the-art Marine Technology Institute of South Carolina in Georgetown.
- How does HGTC contribute to the local economy?
- HGTC is a full partner with the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation (MBREDC), offering free and low-cost training for job creators and providing a skilled workforce that contributes to regional economic growth and diversification.
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
