The South Carolina Department of Education has selected Richland One’s Heyward Career and Technology Center as a pilot site for a new electric vehicle technician training program.
Heyward Career and Technology Center is one of six high school career centers in the state selected to serve as a pilot site.
“This is a significant step for our career and technical education programs. We continually challenge our consultants and principals to seek out innovative programs and enhancements to ensure our curriculum stays aligned with industry demands, and this electric vehicle initiative is a perfect example,” said Chris Dinkins, Richland One’s director of career and technical education.
Heyward was also awarded a $100,000 grant from the Department of Education that will cover the cost of equipment and teacher training.
Electric vehicle technology will be integrated into Heyward’s automotive technology and diesel technology programs. Students in those programs will start working with electric vehicle technology as early as spring 2026.
“This grant provides a tremendous opportunity for our students. Hands-on experience with electric vehicle systems will give them a clear advantage in the job market, especially in positions at local dealerships and new employers, such as the Scout Motors plant,” said Heyward Principal Craig Washington.
The diesel technology program at Heyward is the only diesel technology program in South Carolina that is integrating an electric vehicle curriculum into its courses.
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