Meet Victor Hall, a first generation college student and HVAC apprentice for Surry County Schools. Victor was not sure what career might be a good option, so he participated in a maintenance pre-apprenticeship program his senior year of high school. This program sparked his interest in HVAC and maintenance work. The pre-apprenticeship led to a full two-year apprenticeship program with the district that began in June of 2020.

“Apprenticeship is a great opportunity,” says Hall. “I got my foot in the door, plus I got a free ride to college, which I never thought I’d have.” Hall works three full days a week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) and is paid to attend classes at Surry Community College on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. At the end of two years, he will have earned an associate degree and have the skills he needs to work almost anywhere he chooses.

“I enjoy the work,” adds Hall. “It’s always something different, from fixing boilers to testing water lines and even doing plumbing maintenance. The people I work with are really smart and are teaching me a lot. I hope I am able to stay with Surry County – they are a great employer.” While Hall’s parents did not have the opportunity to attend college, they are very supportive of his efforts to earn a degree and excited for his future.

“Only one of my friends in high school was in a pre-apprenticeship program like me, but I would tell anyone to consider apprenticeship as a career option,” Hall said.” I hope someday to mentor other apprentices so they can follow in my footsteps.”

Read the aritcle in the Mount Airy News that featured the Surry-Yadkin Works apprenticeship signing ceremony.