T-U Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Upson Program

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Thomaston, GA
T-U Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Upson Program

The mission of YOUTH LEADERSHIP UPSON is to expose selected high school students exhibiting leadersh

04/21/2026

Today’s Youth Leadership Upson class got a hands-on look at the agriculture that helps drive our local economy 🌱🐄

The day began at the Upson County Extension Office, where participants learned about the wide range of programs and resources supporting families, farmers, and youth across our community. From there, the group visited the Upson County Livestock Sale Barn to experience the fast-paced environment of weekly auctions and gain insight into the livestock industry.

The day wrapped up at SSS Farms, where students explored the day to day operations. From cattle operations and chicken houses, to the strawberry fields that are a local favorite.

It was a day full of learning, connection, and real-world experiences, highlighting the impact of agriculture right here in Upson County. 🌾

Sweet South Strawberry & SSS Farm
UGA Extension/4-H - Upson County

03/26/2026

YLU had a great tour today!

We began the morning with Taylor Smith, City of Thomaston Economic Development Director. He shared goals and visions as well as upcoming projects.

From there, we spent time at the Thomaston-Upson Archives where different artifacts were shared.

Next, the group had a seminar for interview tips and tricks presented by Jessica Hudson.

We ended the day visiting Southern Crescent Technical College seeing the hands on labs used at the school!

Thank you to all who helped make today’s tour wonderful.

02/13/2026

Our Youth Leadership Upson class recently spent the day at the Georgia State Capitol learning firsthand how our state government works. Students had the incredible opportunity to walk both the House and Senate floors before session began, a rare behind-the-scenes experience.

A special thank you to Representative Robert Dickey for taking time out of his busy schedule to speak with the students, answer their questions, and personally show them around the Capitol. During session, Chairman Dickey also recognized the Youth Leadership Upson group from the House floor!

12/17/2025

Our Youth Leadership Upson students had an insightful and inspiring day exploring key pillars of our local economy through aviation, industry, entrepreneurship, and finance.

The day began at the Thomaston-Upson Airport, where Airport Director Mitch Ellerbee provided an overview of airport operations and its role in supporting economic development in Upson County. Students also heard from Slade Gulledge, Executive Director of the Thomaston-Upson Industrial Development Authority, who shared how industries evaluate and ultimately choose to locate in our community.

From there, the group visited Air Evac, where students toured the aircraft and learned about the day-to-day operations and life-saving work performed by the Air Evac team.

After lunch, students met with two local small business owners who shared their entrepreneurial journeys. Kaylee Neighbors spoke about the background and growth of Lilly Jane, followed by Gabrielle Hay of Battle Dress Apparel, who discussed building a brand, overcoming challenges, and the importance of perseverance in business.

The day concluded at United Bank with a tour and an engaging banking discussion led by Amanda Tucker, giving students insight into financial services and the role banks play in supporting both individuals and businesses.

We are grateful to all of our speakers and hosts for investing in the next generation of leaders and providing our students with meaningful, real-world learning experiences.
Thomaston-Upson Development Authority
Air Evac Lifeteam 185 - Upson Co., GA.
Lilly Jane
Battle Dress Apparel
United Bank

11/21/2025

Our Youth Leadership Upson class had an action-packed and eye-opening day as they explored several key organizations that keep Upson County safe, healthy, and thriving!

We kicked off the morning at Upson Regional Medical Center with breakfast and a behind-the-scenes tour. Students learned about the hospital’s operations, Project SEARCH, and the many career pathways within healthcare. They also visited departments like Laundry Services and the Lab, and even got an up-close look at the helipad.

Next, the group traveled to the Thomaston Fire Department, where they received a station tour and a hands-on look at the equipment our firefighters use daily. Students suited up in gear and even tried their skills at knocking over cones using a fire hose!

From there, we visited the Upson County Sheriff’s Office for a guided tour of the offices and jail. Students asked great questions, learned about various roles within the department, and enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by the Sheriff’s Office.

We wrapped up the day at the Thomaston Police Department, where officers led the class through the department and introduced them to K9 Mace. The live demonstration showcased the skills Mace uses in keeping our community safe.

It was an incredible day of learning, leadership, and hands-on experiences. Thank you to all our community partners who graciously welcomed our students and shared their time and expertise. Youth Leadership Upson continues to give our future leaders a deeper appreciation for the people and services that support Upson County every day!

Upson Regional Medical Center
Thomaston Fire Department
Upson County Sheriff - Dan Kilgore
Thomaston Police Department

10/22/2025

Our Youth Leadership Upson participants had an exciting and educational day exploring local industries and learning how leadership takes shape right here in our community!

We began the morning at Tencate, where students enjoyed breakfast and a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility, learning how protective fabrics are made and used across the globe. From there, the group visited QUAD for an in-depth look at their printing operations and the technology that powers their work. Next, we stopped by Value Smart Products, where students discovered how the company produces scent boosters for major retailers such as Walmart, ALDI, and Target.

After lunch, we wrapped up the day with City Manager Russell Thompson, who led a mock city council session. Students stepped into leadership roles, worked through real-world challenges, and learned the complexities of balancing a city budget — gaining a new appreciation for how local government operates.

09/18/2025

The 2025-2026 Youth Leadership Upson class spent yesterday building connections, strengthening leadership skills, and tackling important community issues through team building activities.

The highlight of the day? Conquering the ropes course and flying down the zipline at The Ridge!

A huge thank you to RUSH Ministries and NORTHRIDGE CHURCH Thomaston for making this unforgettable experience possible.

We can’t wait to see how these students continue to grow and lead throughout the year! 💙

Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce

09/16/2025

The Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Upson EMC, is proud to introduce the 2025-2026 Youth Leadership Upson class:

✨ Charlie Basilici
✨ Hadley Chastain
✨ Heli Dave
✨ Krissa Lewis
✨ Kinsley Lonecke
✨ Brianna Montano
✨ Maggie Ou
✨ Isabella Parrott
✨ Jordy Ruiz
✨ Avery Salter
✨ Grayson Seymour
✨ Luke Shales
✨ Jaiyden Wheeler

The mission of Youth Leadership Upson (YLU) is to expose selected high school students to the business, political, and civic workings of our community while developing their leadership potential. Students represent sophomores, juniors, and seniors from across Upson County who have demonstrated excellence in school, church, and community leadership.

We are excited to watch this class grow and lead!

Follow along the YLU tours this year by following the T-U Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Upson Program page.

08/19/2025

Youth Leadership Upson is now accepting applications for 2025–2026!

Are you—or do you know—a high school student who’s ready to step up, stand out, and make an impact? This is your opportunity to explore careers, build leadership skills, meet new people, and get a behind-the-scenes look at Upson County like never before.

📲 Apply now: https://www.thomastongachamber.com/youth-leadership-upson/

08/18/2025

Wondering why a student should apply for the T-U Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Upson Program? See what 2025 YLU Graduate, Cason Waddell says!

Applications are due THIS FRIDAY!
Details + Applications can be found here: https://www.thomastongachamber.com/youth-leadership-upson/.

Address

110 West Main Street
Thomaston, GA

Website

http://www.thomastongachamber.com/

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