Fort Valley State University (FVSU) proudly hosted its inaugural Electric Vehicle (EV) Awareness Conference on Thursday, September 25, showcasing the future of transportation and sustainable energy. The dynamic event was a powerful collaboration between FVSU’s Cooperative Developmental Energy Program (CDEP), the University of Georgia’s Georgia Network for Electric Mobility (UGA-GNEM), and Georgia Power.
The conference drew an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 200 guests, including students, faculty, industry professionals, and community members. Attendees were eager to explore the rapidly evolving EV landscape and the significant opportunities it presents for Georgia’s future.
The day’s tone was set by an engaging keynote address from Commissioner Tim Echols, vice chair of the Georgia Public Service Commission, who underscored the critical importance of innovation, education, and collaboration in achieving the state’s clean energy and transportation goals.
Following the keynote, Dr. Isaac J. Crumbly, Associate Vice President for Careers and Collaborative Programs and Founder/Director of CDEP, delivered a presentation focused on workforce development in STEM fields. He emphasized the necessity of preparing students to meet the growing demand for professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, highlighting CDEP’s vital role in bridging the gap between academic preparation and career opportunities in the energy sector.
Throughout the day, attendees gained valuable insights from a series of expert panel discussions covering a diverse range of topics, including:
- Electric Vehicles 101
- Battery Technology and Charging Infrastructure
- Community Awareness and Municipal Engagement
- Workforce Development and Job Opportunities in the EV Industry
- A Panel of EV Owners Sharing Firsthand Experiences
These sessions provided a comprehensive look at how electric vehicles are transforming the transportation landscape, while also addressing practical considerations such as accessibility, infrastructure needs, and long-term sustainability.
Despite inclement weather that reduced turnout for the outdoor portion of the event, enthusiasm for the EV Expo remained high. The Expo featured 15 vehicles, including a Blue Bird electric bus, and displays from major industry leaders such as KIA, Hyundai, Rivian, Georgia Power, Flint Energies, Five Star, and Blossman Gas. Attendees had the opportunity to view the latest models up close and learn directly from manufacturers and energy providers about their commitment to advancing electric mobility.
The success of the inaugural conference underscored the strength of the partnership among FVSU-CDEP, UGA-GNEM, and Georgia Power. Together, these organizations are poised to continue promoting education, awareness, and workforce readiness in the electric vehicle sector, empowering Georgia communities to engage with and benefit from the transition to cleaner, more sustainable transportation solutions.
