Myrtle Beach, SC, January 31, 2026
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College marked a significant milestone with the unveiling of a historical marker recognizing its six-decade legacy of service in South Carolina’s higher education. The ceremony brought together college leaders, employees, and community members to celebrate the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and workforce development in the Myrtle Beach area. Established in 1966, HGTC plays a vital role in providing accessible education and vocational training, contributing to regional prosperity and community engagement.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
HGTC Honors Six Decades of Community Impact
A historical marker ceremony celebrates Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s enduring legacy in South Carolina’s higher education landscape, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to regional development.
The higher education landscape of Myrtle Beach and the wider Grand Strand recently saw a notable event with the unveiling of a historical marker on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s (HGTC) Conway campus. This marker officially recognizes the institution’s six-decade legacy of dedicated service and continuous growth within the community. The ceremony brought together HGTC leaders, employees, various community members, and preservation partners to acknowledge the college’s profound impact on the region’s academic and economic vitality. The event underscores the value placed on educational institutions that foster student growth and contribute to institutional excellence, reflecting a commitment to both academic rigor and practical community engagement.
Horry-Georgetown Technical College, a cornerstone of South Carolina higher education, has evolved significantly since its inception in 1966 as the Horry-Marion-Georgetown Technical Education Center. For sixty years, it has been instrumental in shaping the workforce and educational opportunities for residents across Horry and Georgetown counties. The college’s journey is intertwined with the development of the Myrtle Beach area, providing essential vocational and technical training that supports local industries and empowers individuals. This dedication to practical education highlights how institutions like HGTC serve as vital engines for regional prosperity, emphasizing innovation in teaching and a disciplined approach to skill development.
As a prominent two-year community and technical college, HGTC plays a critical role in the broader state educational system, offering accessible pathways to both employment and further academic pursuits. Its multi-campus presence, including locations in Myrtle Beach, Conway, and Georgetown, ensures wide-reaching impact, embodying personal responsibility by equipping students with the tools to build successful careers and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The historical marker serves not only as a remembrance of past achievements but also as an inspiration for future endeavors in fostering leadership and community impact through education.
A Legacy Cast in Stone: The Historical Marker Unveiling
On Thursday, January 29, 2026, the Conway campus of Horry-Georgetown Technical College became the site of a commemorative event: the unveiling of a state historical marker. This significant occasion recognized HGTC’s remarkable six-decade legacy of service and growth in the community. The ceremony saw a gathering of HGTC leaders, dedicated employees, various community members, and preservation partners, all united in celebrating the college’s enduring contributions. The presence of these diverse stakeholders highlighted the deep roots HGTC has established within the region, signifying its importance as a local institution and a beacon of educational opportunity. The marker stands as a permanent tribute to the college’s journey, from its foundational years to its current status as a vital educational hub.
Six Decades of Service and Growth
Horry-Georgetown Technical College officially began its journey in 1966 as the Horry-Marion-Georgetown Technical Education Center. The institution was established to meet the growing demand for skilled workers and to provide accessible vocational and technical training to the residents of the coastal region of South Carolina. In 1975, reflecting its expanding scope and focus on Horry and Georgetown counties, the college officially adopted the name Horry-Georgetown Technical College. Over the past sixty years, HGTC has steadily grown, adapting its programs and services to align with the evolving needs of the local economy and industries. This sustained growth exemplifies the college’s commitment to innovation and discipline in its educational mission, ensuring that its offerings remain relevant and impactful for students and employers alike. The college’s history is a testament to its pivotal role in the development of the region’s workforce and its continued dedication to academic excellence.
Foundational Pillars: Academic and Vocational Excellence
As a comprehensive two-year institution, Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers a wide array of over 65 degree and certificate programs, designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge for immediate career entry or seamless transfer to four-year universities. These programs span diverse fields, including business, health sciences, engineering and industrial technology, and public service. The college’s curriculum emphasizes academic freedom within its structured programs, encouraging students to explore their chosen fields with rigor and dedication. HGTC promotes personal responsibility among its students, fostering a learning environment where individuals are empowered to take ownership of their educational journey and career development. The focus on hands-on training, industry-relevant certifications, and foundational academic coursework ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the workforce and pursue lifelong learning.
Community Impact and Regional Partnerships
Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s influence extends far beyond its campuses, deeply integrating into the fabric of the Myrtle Beach community and the broader South Carolina economic ecosystem. The college operates three distinct campus locations in Conway, Myrtle Beach (Grand Strand), and Georgetown, strategically positioned to serve a wide geographic area. A remarkable 90 percent of HGTC graduates choose to remain in the local area, significantly contributing to the regional workforce and economy. This high retention rate underscores the college’s direct impact on local employment and its role in fostering community stability and growth. Through collaborations with local businesses, industries, and civic organizations, HGTC continuously aligns its educational offerings with the demands of the market, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and community partnership. These connections highlight how community colleges South Carolina play a crucial role in economic development, acting as conduits for skilled labor and professional advancement.
Looking Forward: Sustaining Educational Leadership
As Horry-Georgetown Technical College looks to the future, its commitment to educational leadership and community impact remains steadfast. The institution continues to embrace innovation in its programs and teaching methodologies, ensuring that students receive the most relevant and up-to-date training. HGTC’s ongoing dedication to academic freedom allows for the exploration of new ideas and approaches in education, while its emphasis on personal responsibility prepares students to navigate an ever-changing professional landscape. The historical marker serves as a reminder of the strong foundation upon which the college is built, inspiring continued excellence and service. HGTC remains a vital component of Myrtle Beach SC college news, consistently contributing to the intellectual and economic vibrancy of the region and setting a high standard for South Carolina higher education.
The unveiling of the historical marker for Horry-Georgetown Technical College stands as a testament to its enduring legacy and significant contributions to the Myrtle Beach area and the state of South Carolina. For sixty years, HGTC has championed academic rigor, fostered student growth, and demonstrated institutional excellence, producing skilled graduates who bolster the local economy. We encourage readers to explore the diverse programs offered by Horry-Georgetown Technical College, attend upcoming campus events, and stay informed about the dynamic and impactful developments within Myrtle Beach’s vibrant college community.
Horry-Georgetown Technical College: Key Facts
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Public two-year Community/Technical College |
| Established As | Horry-Marion-Georgetown Technical Education Center (1966) |
| Renamed To | Horry-Georgetown Technical College (1975) |
| Number of Campuses | 3 (Conway, Myrtle Beach/Grand Strand, Georgetown) |
| Programs Offered | Over 65 degree and certificate programs |
| Local Graduate Retention | 90 percent of graduates stay in the area |
| Historical Marker Unveiling | Thursday, January 29, 2026 (Conway campus) |
Frequently Asked Questions about Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC)
Q: When was the historical marker for Horry-Georgetown Technical College unveiled?
A: The historical marker for Horry-Georgetown Technical College was unveiled on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Conway campus.
Q: What does the historical marker recognize?
A: The historical marker recognizes Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s six-decade legacy of service and growth in the community.
Q: When was Horry-Georgetown Technical College originally established?
A: Horry-Georgetown Technical College was originally established in 1966 as the Horry-Marion-Georgetown Technical Education Center.
Q: How many campuses does Horry-Georgetown Technical College have?
A: Horry-Georgetown Technical College has three campus locations: Conway, Myrtle Beach (Grand Strand), and Georgetown.
Q: What percentage of HGTC graduates remain in the local area after graduation?
A: A remarkable 90 percent of HGTC graduates choose to remain in the local area.
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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.
