On behalf of Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Technical College System of Georgia, Commissioner Greg Dozier presented the 2024 Business Partner of the Year Award to Augusta Technical College's partner, Aurubis Richmond. The award honors outstanding achievements in workforce development, partnerships, and student success across Georgia.

“Aurubis Richmond exemplifies the power of industry partnerships in transforming communities and empowering students with life-changing opportunities,” said TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier. “Through their commitment to education, workforce development, and community engagement, Aurubis Richmond has set a benchmark for what it means to be an exceptional partner. Their investment in Augusta Technical College and our students not only strengthens the local workforce, but also creates a lasting impact on countless lives. We are proud to recognize them as the Governor’s Education Business Partner of the Year.”

"We at Aurubis Richmond extend our heartfelt thanks to Augusta Technical College for their unwavering support and invaluable partnership since we established our presence in the region," stated David Schultheis, President and Managing Director for Aurubis Richmond. "Your commitment to education, workforce development, and collaboration has been instrumental in fostering growth and innovation. Together, we’re building a stronger community and creating opportunities for success. We are proud to be your partner and thank you for being such a vital part of our journey."

The company is investing around $800 million to build the first secondary smelter for complex recycling materials in North America. Aurubis Richmond will be able to process a total of 180,000 tons of complex recycling materials, such as printed circuit boards and insulated copper cable, per year as of 2026.

"Aurubis Richmond’s trust in Augusta Technical College and support of its students is immense, with a $150,000 commitment towards launching the first U.S. chapter “Women 4 Metals” scholarship, recruiting initiative for women in STEAM careers, and an endowment for Aurubis employees and their families," stated College President Dr. Jermaine Whirl. "Additionally, they have invested over $50,000 in training programs, including safety, leadership training, and youth manufacturing/STEM camps. They also collaborating with the college on four registered apprenticeships in areas such as manufacturing, supply chain management, production operations/advanced manufacturing, and maintenance and engineering. They’ve actively participated in our advanced manufacturing nights in partnership with the Augusta GreenJackets and have led professional development sessions with our entire employee base. They’ve held recruiting events on our campus, and their training team co-resides in our continuing education facility. They are a true corporate partner, and this recognition is well deserved."

L-R: Analia Payne, Training Specialist, Aurubis Richmond; Julie Langham, VP, Economic Development, ATC; Sherrie Bishop, HR Director, Aurubis Richmond; Karin Borer, Director of Finace, Aurubis Richmond Directors Board; Dr. Jermaine Whirl, President, ATC; Greg Dozier, Commissioner, TCSG