2 Piedmont Technical College alumni graduate from BMW Fast Track Scholar Program
Piedmont Technical College (PTC) alumni Deandre Daniel and Sara Puckett recently graduated from the BMW Fast Track Scholar Program. They are both eager to continue their careers with the automaker.
As part of the yearlong BMW Fast Track Scholar Program, recent technical college graduates go through an aggressive training program to develop the knowledge needed to be considered for full-time positions. Daniel and Puckett are among more than 330 BMW scholars who have graduated since the company created the initiative in 2011. BMW’s partners in the program include PTC, Greenville Technical College, Spartanburg Community College and Tri-County Technical College.
“The BMW Scholar program is a tremendous opportunity,” said PTC Associate Dean of Students David Rosenbaum. “Graduates who are selected that demonstrate a ‘get to’ attitude, positive mindset and willingness to learn are set up for a long-term career with the organization.”
Daniel graduated from PTC in May 2024 with an associate in applied science, major in mechatronics technology. He has spent the past year commuting from his home in Edgefield to the BMW plant in Greer, where he has worked primarily in the body shop.
“I feel like that is probably the place where you get to learn the most,” he said.
Daniel said he hopes BMW will hire him on a full-time basis if he passes a final test in July.
Puckett graduated from PTC in May 2023 with an associate in applied science, major in computer technology, cybersecurity concentration. The Greenville resident focused on internet technology while taking part in the BMW Fast Track Scholar Program.
She said the program has given her an opportunity to “apply my degree in the real world.”
“I've grown a lot just because of all the networking and the after-work events that I also go to. It's really helped me grow as a person, so I really have enjoyed the program,” Puckett said. “Ideally, I’d like to stay here and continue on with my career.”