From Student to Skilled Technician: How Technical College Helped Jacob Mathis Fast-Track His Career in Air Conditioning

As a high school senior, Jacob Mathis already knew the direction he wanted his life to take—and it didn’t include the typical four-year university track.

“You don’t have to go to a big college to be successful,” says Jacob, a 2023 graduate of Flowery Branch High School. “My counselor kept asking why I wasn’t applying to UGA or Georgia Tech since I had the grades. But I saw greater opportunity in the trades. I knew I could start a career faster, spend less time in school, and still earn a good living.”

He followed that vision to Lanier Technical College, where he enrolled in the Air Conditioning Technology program. Jacob excelled in the classroom, earning a spot on the President’s List in his second semester and graduating with a 3.40 GPA. At the same time, he was gaining hands-on experience with Lawson Air Conditioning and Plumbing in Gainesville, starting as a part-time worker before becoming a full-time HVAC technician after completing his degree in December 2024.

“Jacob is a true example of determination and resilience,” says his former high school instructor, David Coetzee. “At just 20 years old, he’s already building a successful career in the HVAC field.”

Read More: https://constructionready.org/story/jacob-mathis/