Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc. and the Richmond County School System are celebrating a major milestone: the graduation of 400 students from the Reaching Potential Through Manufacturing (RPM) program since its founding in 2017.
With 10 graduates receiving their high-school diplomas this month and 11 more on track to graduate this summer, the RPM program’s continues to encourage students and give them an opportunity to thrive, according to a press release from Textron.
Rob Scholl, president and CEO of Textron Specialized Vehicles, praised the program, which supports at-risk high school students with an alternative path to earning their diploma.
“We are proud to celebrate this milestone for RPM, and the accomplishments of our newest graduates,” said Scholl. “This program is another example of the life-changing impact that local companies, our schools, and our community can make when we work together to help our kids in need.”
Dr. Malinda Cobb, interim superintendent of the Richmond County School System, echoed Scholl’s sentiment in the program positively effecting local youth.
“RPM continues to prove that when we align academics with purpose and mentorship, we can change the trajectory of a student’s life,” Cobb said. “We are grateful for the unwavering commitment of our educators and the determination of our students.”
The RPM program combines a unique blend of academics and hands-on experience, allowing students to attend classes at the program’s facility, which is part schoolhouse, part manufacturing plant, according to a press release from Textron.
Students work four-hour shifts on the manufacturing floor producing components and subassemblies for E-Z-GO® golf cars and Cushman® utility vehicles. They are paid for their work while earning academic credits towards their high-school diploma.
In addition to academic courses, RPM students receive training in life skills and have access to additional tutoring. The program draws students from all Richmond County high schools, with selections based on need and the program’s ability to help meet students’ individual situations.
Many RPM graduates have gone on to attend college or enter the workforce, with some taking full-time positions at Textron Specialized Vehicles’ local manufacturing facilities.
RPM is modeled after Southwire’s “12 For Life” program in Carroll County, Ga., which has seen similar success.
Officials from Textron and the Richmond County School System reported that both will continue to look for ways to expand and improve the program, offering even more students the chance to build brighter futures, according to a press release from Textron.
For more information on RPM or how students can apply, visit www.rcboe.org/rpm.
