Nine Students with Learning Disabilities Graduate

Midlands Technical College celebrated its latest graduating class of Building Occupational Opportunities in the Midlands (BOOM) class on May 23, 2024.

Nine students who have learning disabilities are now prepared for careers in the construction industry. Each student completes a 90-hour course while earning certificates in building construction and OSHA credentials.

During the ceremony, local community and school district leaders addressed the graduates about their passion and willingness to continue to strive for excellence in the classroom. Graduate Alvin D. Smith spoke about the program, everything that he has learned, and got a standing ovation from the audience after he gave a touching tribute to his mother and father, who he credits have always pushed him to be better.

BOOM is made possible thanks to a grant from Apprenticeship Carolina and cooperation between Lexington District One, Lexington-Richland District Five, Richland School Districts One and Two, Midlands Education & Business Alliance, S.C. Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Building Industry Association of Central South Carolina. In 2019, the South Carolina State Technical College System recognized the program as the best for collaboration and innovation.