Success Story

Meet Marcus Bayne

Marcus started the GED program in 2016 on the Coastal Alabama Atmore Campus. Markus was working full-time in entry level jobs sometimes coming to adult education courses and welding courses immediately after working the night shift. Marcus worked diligently towards achieving his GED, but had a hard time passing the Reading and Language Arts section.

However, there is no quit in Marcus as he was laser focused on achieving his goals. Once the state of Alabama started the High School Diploma Option, instructors from Coastal Alabama adult education realized that Marcus would be the perfect candidate.

He left high school with 10 credits and earned about 14 credits while working towards a Welding certificate. He was eligible for the High School Diploma Option (HSDO) achieving the 9th grade level TABE A and the rest is history! Marcus was encouraged to pursue his Associate’s degree in Welding. Not only did he get his high school diploma in 2017, but received two Welding certificates, and graduated with his Associates degree in Welding in 2019.

Since graduation Marcus has attracted 6 job offers and is now working for Jaco Contracting Inc. as a welder, maintenance professional & truck driver. He is also doing some contract work for Georgia Pacific in Perdue Hill, AL.

He said loves his new career and is making more money than he ever thought possible. The education he received at Coastal Alabama is paying dividends. He also stated that in the future, he wants to start his own business accrediting his success to the adult education program. Marcus’ advice to others is you must be willing to commit to the process, allow the instructors to guide you, and do the work!