The Greenville Tech Foundation will host its annual signature fundraising event, Champions for Student Success, on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Greenville Technical College’s newly opened Center for Welding & Automation Excellence on the Brashier Campus.
This year’s theme, “Forging Futures,” reflects the difference made when students have access to education, hands-on training, and a community of supporters invested in their success. Funds raised through Champions for Student Success provide critical resources that help Greenville Technical College students overcome barriers, complete their education, and prepare for successful careers.
Through its mission, the Greenville Tech Foundation works to expand access to education, ignite personal transformation, and contribute to the economic vitality of our region. The Foundation supports students through scholarships, emergency assistance, and student success initiatives that help them achieve their goals and build meaningful careers.
The event recognizes the businesses, organizations, and individuals whose generosity helps students stay on track, complete their education, and contribute to the future of the Upstate.
In 2026, the Greenville Tech Foundation is proud to recognize Fluor Corporation and Vermeer Corporation as Champions for Student Success honorees for their outstanding commitment to Greenville Technical College students, workforce development, and the Upstate community.
Their support of the Center for Welding & Automation Excellence is helping provide students with hands-on training and the technical skills needed to succeed in high-demand careers.
Fluor Corporation has been a committed partner and investor in Greenville Technical College and the Greenville Tech Foundation for decades. The company’s relationship with Greenville Tech represents a long-term investment in education, workforce development, and the future of the Upstate.
Through its Golf for Greenville charity tournament, Fluor recently supported the naming of the Main Welding Lab at Greenville Technical College’s new Center for Welding & Automation Excellence, an advanced training hub featuring 80 welding booths that provides students with hands-on experience for careers in skilled trades and advanced manufacturing.
Fluor and its employees have provided more than $1 million in support to Greenville Technical College and the Greenville Tech Foundation, including investments in the ASPIRE Scholars Initiative, Student Emergency Needs Fund, and the Fluor Military Support Endowed Scholarship for veterans transitioning to civilian careers. Through its continued commitment to students, education, and the Upstate workforce, Fluor exemplifies what it means to be a Champion for Student Success.
Vermeer Corporation has been a dedicated supporter of Greenville Technical College and the Greenville Tech Foundation, investing in students and workforce development throughout the Upstate. Founded in 1948, Vermeer has grown from a small manufacturing operation into a global company recognized for innovation and commitment to its communities.
Since expanding its presence in the Greenville area through Vermeer MV Solutions, the company has invested more than $305,000 in Greenville Technical College and the Greenville Tech Foundation. In 2024, Vermeer provided significant support for the MIG Welding Lab at the Center for Welding & Automation Excellence, creating a hands-on training environment where students develop the skills needed for careers in advanced manufacturing and skilled trades.
“Champions for Student Success is about ensuring that every student has the support they need to overcome obstacles, complete their education, and prepare for a successful career,” said Gina Blohm, executive director of the Greenville Tech Foundation. “The funds raised through this event provide critical resources that help turn opportunity into achievement for Greenville Technical College students. We are proud to honor Vermeer and Fluor for their extraordinary commitment to student success, workforce development, and the future of our region.”
The event begins with a networking reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by a program recognizing the 2026 honorees. More than 200 community and business leaders are expected to attend.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations and individuals interested in supporting student success and workforce development. For more information about Champions for Student Success, visit greenvilletechfoundation.org/events.