Myrtle Beach, SC, December 31, 2025
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is enhancing workforce training programs in Myrtle Beach to meet local industry demands. Key expansions include advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology training, aimed at empowering students for in-demand careers. Strategic partnerships with local businesses bolster program relevance, enabling HGTC to align education with current job market needs. The college’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce impacts both individual career success and regional economic growth.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
HGTC Fortifies Grand Strand Workforce with Program Expansion
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is actively enhancing the economic vitality of the Grand Strand through strategic expansions in its workforce training programs. These initiatives are designed to meet the evolving demands of local industries and empower students with practical skills, fostering both individual career success and regional prosperity.
As a cornerstone of higher education in the Myrtle Beach area, HGTC’s commitment to academic rigor, student development, and institutional excellence is evident in its responsive curriculum. By cultivating strong partnerships with area businesses, the college ensures its offerings directly align with current employment needs, underscoring the critical role of accessible, high-quality technical education in South Carolina’s economic landscape.
Meeting Advanced Manufacturing Demands
HGTC is significantly bolstering its offerings in Advanced Manufacturing, a sector vital to the region’s economic growth. The Georgetown Center for Advanced Manufacturing, a 30,000-square-foot facility, hosts training programs in advanced welding, machine tool technology, and mechatronics. This center anticipates supporting over $14 million in new capital investment and filling more than 240 jobs by 2024. Similarly, a 25,000-square-foot facility on the Conway Campus is dedicated to advanced welding and CNC machine tool technologies. These programs aim to provide a pipeline of skilled workers for in-demand, well-paying positions in the manufacturing sector.
The college’s partnerships, such as with Miller®, a leader in arc welding products, ensure students train on state-of-the-art equipment, including robotic welding cells and various multi-process welding systems. This collaboration exemplifies HGTC’s dedication to providing hands-on, industry-relevant education, fostering discipline and innovation in its students. The expansion of the Advanced Manufacturing Center is notably supported in part by the local penny sales tax, which provides funding for capital improvements at educational institutions across Horry County.
Expanding Healthcare Training for Critical Needs
Addressing the pressing demand for skilled professionals in the healthcare sector, HGTC has actively expanded its Healthcare Science programs. In March 2024, a grant from Bank of America provided support for new programs and professional development opportunities for existing healthcare partners. This investment allows the college to equip students with current knowledge and practical skills for direct entry into the workforce, thereby enhancing healthcare services in the region.
HGTC offers a range of accredited programs within its Allied Health Sciences department, including those for Patient Care Medical Assistant, Nursing, and short-term certifications such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Electrocardiography Technician, and Phlebotomy. The Dr. Robert E. Speir Jr. Health Education Center on the Grand Strand campus, a 50,000-square-foot facility, and the Charles F. Freeman Community Dental Clinic further demonstrate HGTC’s infrastructure dedicated to health sciences education.
Advancing Information Technology and Digital Skills
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, HGTC offers robust programs in Information Technology and Digital Arts designed to prepare students for diverse careers. These offerings include degrees and certificates in areas such as Computer Technology – Programming, Cybersecurity, Networking, and even Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovators. Students gain proficiency in various programming languages, preparing them for roles as business-application programmers, database managers, and system analysts.
The college also provides training for in-demand IT certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and Certified Network Defender (CND), crucial for advancing professional careers. By fostering critical digital literacy and specialized technical skills, HGTC empowers students with the personal responsibility to adapt to technological advancements and contribute to the region’s innovation economy.
Strategic Partnerships and Community Impact
HGTC’s effectiveness is amplified by its commitment to strategic partnerships. The college collaborates with businesses, government agencies, and community residents to develop tailored training programs and supports economic development through education. As a member of the South Carolina Technical College System, HGTC participates in statewide programs like Apprenticeship Carolina, which assists companies in developing registered apprenticeship initiatives. These programs often follow an “earn-as-you-learn” model, combining on-the-job training with classroom education.
An $8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce through the Economic Development Administration (EDA), complemented by an additional $4.7 million in local funding, is supporting the construction of a new Marine Technology Center on the Georgetown Campus. This significant investment is projected to create over 470 jobs and foster $75 million in private investment, showcasing how educational institutions can drive substantial economic impact. The college’s mission emphasizes enriching lives and empowering communities by providing accessible and affordable education, fostering economic development and innovation.
Regional Growth and Educational Pathways
HGTC operates across three main campus locations: Conway, Georgetown, and the Grand Strand in Myrtle Beach, ensuring accessible education for residents across Horry and Georgetown counties. The Grand Strand campus, situated in the heart of Myrtle Beach, is noted for its fast growth in facilities and student enrollment. With over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, HGTC serves students seeking immediate employment or aiming to transfer to a four-year institution through established agreements with universities like Coastal Carolina University.
The South Carolina Technical College System, established in 1961, aimed to develop vocational and technical skills to attract industry to the state. This system has evolved into 16 comprehensive two-year institutions, playing a significant role in the state’s economic development. While statewide full-time enrollment in technical colleges has seen fluctuations, the demand for trade skills remains high, leading to graduates often securing employment before completing their programs, underscoring the value of specialized training.
Conclusion
Horry-Georgetown Technical College continues to be a driving force in the Myrtle Beach community, steadfastly providing essential workforce training and academic pathways that align with the region’s economic growth. Through strategic investments in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology, combined with robust industry partnerships, HGTC prepares students for meaningful careers and strengthens the local economy. The college’s dedication to developing a skilled workforce ensures that individuals are equipped with the discipline and practical knowledge necessary for success, contributing to the broader prosperity of South Carolina’s higher education and economic ecosystem.
Readers are encouraged to explore the diverse range of programs offered at HGTC, attend campus events, and stay informed about how local colleges and universities are shaping the future of the Myrtle Beach community. For more information on programs that build leadership and community impact, visit HGTC’s official resources.
Keywords: Horry-Georgetown Technical College, Myrtle Beach SC college news, South Carolina higher education, advanced manufacturing, workforce development
Frequently Asked Questions
- What new training areas is Horry-Georgetown Technical College expanding?
- Horry-Georgetown Technical College is expanding its training in areas such as Advanced Manufacturing, Healthcare Support, and Information Technology to meet regional workforce demands.
- How does HGTC collaborate with local industries?
- HGTC collaborates with local businesses to develop tailored training programs and supports economic development. It also participates in statewide programs like Apprenticeship Carolina, which helps companies develop demand-driven registered apprenticeship initiatives.
- What is the impact of HGTC’s new Marine Technology Center?
- The new Marine Technology Center, supported by an $8 million grant and additional local funding, is expected to create over 470 jobs and foster $75 million in private investment in the marine technology sector.
- What types of healthcare programs are available at HGTC?
- HGTC offers a range of healthcare programs including degrees and certifications for Patient Care Medical Assistant, Nursing, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Electrocardiography Technician, and Phlebotomy.
- How many campuses does Horry-Georgetown Technical College have?
- Horry-Georgetown Technical College has three main campus locations: Conway, Georgetown, and the Grand Strand in Myrtle Beach.
Key Program Highlights at Horry-Georgetown Technical College
| Program Area | Key Features & Offerings | Community/Economic Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Manufacturing | Advanced welding, machine tool technology, mechatronics, CNC operations. Partnerships with industry leaders like Miller®. Two dedicated centers (Georgetown, Conway). | Projected to support over $14 million in new capital investment and fill over 240 jobs by 2024 (Georgetown Center). Provides skilled workers for high-demand, high-wage jobs. |
| Healthcare Sciences | Patient Care Medical Assistant, Nursing (ADN, PN), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Electrocardiography Technician, Phlebotomy. Dr. Robert E. Speir Jr. Health Education Center on Grand Strand campus. | Addresses critical regional demand for healthcare professionals. Equipped with modern facilities and grant support for program expansion. |
| Information Technology | Computer Technology (Programming, Cybersecurity, Networking), Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovators. Training for CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Certified Network Defender (CND) certifications. | Prepares students for roles as programmers, database managers, system analysts. Fosters digital literacy and specialized technical skills for the innovation economy. |
| Marine Technology | Outboard Marine Technology and Boat Building Technology programs (state’s only). Located at a new Marine Technology Center on the Georgetown Campus. | Expected to create over 470 jobs and foster $75 million in private investment. Significant investment through EDA grant and local funding. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach High School: Fostering Student Success
Recognition for Culinary Excellence at HGTC
Coastal Carolina University Launches Data Analytics Program
Coastal Carolina University Enhances Athletic Facilities
Coastal Carolina University Upgrades Athletic Facilities
HGTC Enhances Workforce Development for Grand Strand
HGTC Cultivates Sports Industry Talent in Myrtle Beach
Coastal Carolina University Enhances Athletic Facilities
HGTC Fuels Workforce Development in Myrtle Beach
Coastal Carolina University Drives Economic Growth in South Carolina
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.
