10/09/2026
Our Youth Leadership Upson students traded their usual classroom setting for an exciting day of industry tours, career exploration, and hands-on learning! From manufacturing and industrial coatings to beauty, healthcare, and high-tech careers, these students got an up-close look at the many opportunities right here in our own backyard. 👏
🧵 First Stop: TenCate Protective Fabrics in Molena!
Our day began with a behind-the-scenes look at TenCate Protective Fabrics’ Dyeing and Finishing Plant, where fabric gets its color and specialized performance features! Students learned how fabrics are dyed and treated with finishes that help provide important protective qualities, including flame resistance, water repellency, and durability. Through specialized equipment, heat treatment, and careful quality inspections, the plant transforms fabric into high-performance protective materials used to make protective clothing for workers in demanding environments. It was a fascinating look at the science, technology, and precision behind the fabrics that help keep people safe!
🧺 Next Up: Value Smart Products — The BEST-Smelling Stop of the Day!
If we could bottle up the smell of this tour, we would! 😂 Students visited Value Smart Products in Thomaston, where they got a firsthand look at the production of laundry scent booster beads. From seeing how the products are made to watching them get packaged and prepared for shipment, students learned how a product goes from the production line to store shelves. Who knew a little extra freshness could involve so much behind-the-scenes work?
🚜Third Stop: Ranew’s Companies — Where Industry Gets a Fresh Coat!
At Ranew’s Thomaston facility, students learned about industrial powder coating and how this specialized process is used to finish John Deere tractor parts, agricultural implements, and components for other business and industrial customers. They discovered how parts are prepared, coated, and cured to create durable finishes built to withstand tough working conditions. It was a great look at the skilled trades and technical processes that help keep industries moving!
🎓 Final Stop: Southern Crescent Technical College!
We wrapped up the day exploring the many career pathways available through Southern Crescent Technical College. Students toured the nursing lab, chatted with cosmetology professionals (and one student even made an appointment to come back for a manicure! 💅), and learned from instructors in automotive technology, diesel mechanics, and drone technology.
From healthcare and beauty to heavy equipment and emerging technology, students saw just how many different paths are available after high school. And who knows? One of these visits may have sparked the idea for a future career!
💜 A HUGE thank-you to all the businesses, instructors, and professionals who welcomed our students, shared their knowledge, and helped bring career exploration to life!
Youth Leadership Upson is all about helping students discover their strengths, explore opportunities, build connections, and see the possibilities that exist within their own community.
The future is bright in Upson County, and these young leaders are just getting started! 🌟
