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For Verniecia Johnson of Cordele, working on cars isn’t just a job—it’s a calling passed down through generations. Now 31, Johnson is turning that lifelong passion into a full-fledged career through South Georgia Technical College (SGTC), where she recently earned her diploma in Automotive Technology.

Johnson’s journey began years ago under the hoods of cars in her family’s driveway. “I grew up around cars. My dad, granddads, and uncles all worked on them,” she recalled. “My granddad taught me how to change oil and tires when I was young. He said, ‘If you’re going to be out here, you’re going to learn something.’”

For the past several years, Johnson has maintained and repaired her own vehicles and those of family and friends. Her reputation quickly spread, leading her to start her own business, M and C Auto Repair—named after her two sons, Marcus and Chris.

“I get calls almost daily,” she said. “Sometimes it’s for basic work like oil changes or brakes. Other times, people just have questions. I especially try to help women who may not know how to check fluids or tire tread before long trips.”

Despite her hands-on experience, Johnson wanted to deepen her knowledge. “I found out there was a program at SGTC, and I thought, ‘Why not go to school for it?’” she said.

She enrolled in the Automotive Technology program and, despite being the only woman in her class, quickly found her place thanks to the support and encouragement from instructors Brandon Dean and Carey Mahone.

“I was never singled out,” she said. “Mr. Dean and Mr. Mahone made sure everyone got hands-on experience. Safety was always first, and they made sure we felt comfortable tackling any task.”

Now, Johnson is working toward an associate degree through SGTC’s new Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies program, which allows students with a diploma from any technical program at the college to earn a degree by completing just five additional core classes.

“It’s only five more classes. So, I was like, okay, sign me up.”

She’s now considering a future that might also include teaching automotive technology. “I love helping people learn,” she said. “Everyone who drives should know the basics, like checking fluids and inspecting tires. I’d love to pass that knowledge on.”

Johnson is also preparing to gain more hands-on shop experience while balancing work and motherhood. Her sons already share her interest in cars—especially her youngest, Chris, who often helps out during service calls.

Reflecting on her experience as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Johnson remains unfazed.

“People sometimes think it’s a man’s job, but I disagree,” she said. “There are male nurses and female doctors. If you love something, you should pursue it. This is what I love.”

To any woman considering a similar path, her advice is simple: “Go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do.”

Johnson said enrolling at South Georgia Technical College was one of the best choices she’s made. “I really like it. This is a great school. The resources are there. The people are there. Everybody’s friendly, loving, and caring.”

With her determination, hands-on skill, and the support of SGTC, Verniecia Johnson is not just fixing cars—she’s driving change.