The Effingham County School District (ECSD), in partnership with Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), proudly unveiled the new Hyundai EV Lab at Effingham College and Career Academy (ECCA) on Friday, October 24. The state-of-the-art lab provides students with hands-on learning opportunities in electric vehicle technology—an industry that continues to drive innovation and workforce growth in Georgia and beyond.

The ceremony opened with remarks from Todd Wall, ECSD Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education Coordinator; Dr. Yancy Ford, Superintendent of Effingham County Schools; and Dr. Brent Stubbs, Chief Administrative Officer, Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America.

Designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, the Hyundai EV Lab allows students to build, operate, and troubleshoot fully functioning electric vehicles. Following the ceremony, students proudly demonstrated their work by driving one of their completed vehicles out of the lab to the applause of guests, educators, and community partners.

“This EV Lab is an invaluable addition to our engineering program because it provides true hands-on experience,” said Todd Wall, ECSD Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education Coordinator. “Students aren’t just learning from a video or textbook—they’re assembling, taking apart, troubleshooting, and problem-solving in real time. These are the authentic, work-based experiences that prepare them for future careers.”

Aaron Parker, ECCA Engineering Teacher, echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the impact on students’ future pathways. “This lab offers a true, real-world, hands-on learning experience. Students are able to take what they’ve learned through every aspect of building, operating, and troubleshooting the car and apply those skills directly in the workforce. Whether they continue at a technical college or a university, these experiences give them a strong foundation for the future.”

Superintendent Dr. Yancy Ford commended the collaboration, noting how the lab represents the district’s commitment to connecting education and industry. “This partnership with Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America represents the best of what can happen when education and industry come together.  Our students are gaining real-world skills that connect directly to the future of Georgia’s workforce.” 

Brent Stubbs, Chief Administrative Officer at HMGMA, shared the company’s enthusiasm for supporting local workforce development. “Hyundai chose the region not just for its infrastructure or resources, but for its people and community. The partnership we have with Effingham County Schools and ECCA reflects that spirit—working together to build the future. This lab isn’t just about technology; it’s about opening doors of opportunity for local students and developing the talent that will drive the future of mobility right here in Effingham County.”

The unveiling of the Hyundai EV Lab represents a milestone in career and technical education for Effingham County—empowering students with the skills, confidence, and curiosity to thrive in the evolving world of electric vehicle technology.

About Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America:
Located in Bryan County, Georgia, Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America is the company’s first dedicated EV manufacturing facility in the United States, supporting innovation, sustainability, and workforce development across the Southeast.