The Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce and Upson-Lee High School are proud to announce its partnership and participation in the 2026–2027 Georgia FLEX (Foundational Leadership and Entrepreneurial Experience) program, a statewide initiative that empowers high school students to develop real-world entrepreneurial and leadership skills through hands-on learning and community engagement.
Madison Ruttinger, Chamber President, Eddie Peyton, Business Teacher at Upson-Lee High School, and Taylor Smith, City of Thomaston Economic Development Director attended the 2026 FLEX Implementation Workshop, where they engaged in collaborative training sessions, learned best practices from successful program sites, and worked alongside their teams to map out tailored plans for launching or enhancing their local FLEX programs. This hands-on workshop ensures each community begins the school year equipped with the tools and strategies needed for a strong and sustainable implementation.
“FLEX doesn’t just prepare students for careers—it prepares them to lead,” said Melissa Dark, Executive Director of Georgia FLEX. “Communities that participate in FLEX invest in their future workforce and cultivate the kind of entrepreneurial thinking that drives local progress.”
FLEX continues to inspire high school students, immersing them in real-world entrepreneurial experiences by helping students start real businesses and providing them with mentorship opportunities. Through FLEX, students learn to identify problems, develop innovative solutions, and pitch viable business ideas, all while building confidence, communication skills, and a deep understanding of their local economies.
FLEX also benefits the wider community by nurturing a culture of collaboration through connecting youth with local business leaders. By supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, Upson County is investing in a stronger, more resilient local economy.
The 2026–2027 program officially kicks off this fall, and the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce and Upson-Lee High School look forward to seeing the creativity, leadership, and drive our students will bring to this year’s FLEX journey. The 2026-2027 Thomaston-Upson FLEX Leadership Team consists of Madison Ruttinger, Wayne Puckett, Eddie Peyton, Charlie Canady, Taylor Smith, and Slade Gulledge.
For more information about the Georgia FLEX program, visit www.georgiaflex.org or contact Madison Ruttinger at mruttinger@thomastongachamber.com to learn how you can support our local program.