GWINNETT — Gonzalo Martinez has been chosen to represent Gwinnett Technical College at the statewide EAGLE Leadership Institute March 9-11, 2020. The Leadership Institute recognizes and honors students who have demonstrated superior achievement in adult education classes and programs.
Gonzalo’s story certainly exemplifies all this program is about. A resident of Lawrenceville, Gonzalo first came to the United States 30 years ago from Mexico. He enrolled in Gwinnett Tech’s ESL (English as a Second Language) program and returned to earn his GED. Gonzalo accomplished his dream of earning his GED in 2019 and is currently exploring options to enroll in the building maintenance program.
Gonzalo’s “ah-ha” moment came when he recognized jobs today now require a different skill set. “One day I realized the labor force is changing and I needed to adapt. This is why I choose to go back to school.” When asked what EAGLE means to him, Gonzalo stated, “It means everything! It has given me the opportunity to explore more ways to continue my education.”
The Technical College System of Georgia, through its Office of Adult Education, sponsors the annual Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education (EAGLE) Leadership Institute. EAGLE is the first statewide program in the nation that recognizes and rewards excellence among students enrolled in adult education programs. This student recognition program is designed to create greater awareness of educational opportunities that are available in local communities across the state and to foster greater involvement in lifelong learning pursuits.