Garton’s Earns County Technical Education Award

From left: Henry “Buster” Garton, Sandy Garton and CCTEC Principal Gregory McGraw.
PHOTO: Courtesy CCTEC

Vineland-based Garton’s Rigging was recently honored as Cumberland County Technical Education Center 2025 Business Partner of the Year for its sustained, hands-on support of CCTEC programs.

Each year, the state’s 21 county vocational school districts honor a Business Partner of the Year. These honorees can include state and national corporations, health care facilities, local businesses, county and federal officials, and any other contributing organization that supports career and technical education. These business partners share their experience and expertise to ensure that programs meet current industry standards and needs. They serve on school advisory boards, donate equipment, serve as lecturers and student mentors, offer internships and scholarships, and, most importantly, hire the students. 

Garton’s Rigging was founded in 1946 by Buster Garton’s grandfather, Henry Garton. Henry initially founded the company to service the crane rental and transport needs of the then booming Vineland and Millville areas. The company would later grow to serve a much larger market including New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware. Garton’s continues to expand and is still owned and operated by the Garton family along with a very dedicated staff of skilled employees.

Garton’s Rigging has had a tremendous impact on the program at CCTEC by serving as an active member of its program advisory committee and providing valuable insight to ensure the CCTEC curriculum aligns with community and industry needs. They provide suggestions for equipment and training that enhance hands-on learning experiences, keep the classrooms aligned with industry standards, and ensure students are well-prepared to succeed as future employees. 

Garton’s also supports students directly by hiring graduates through the School-to-Work program, including students from the automotive, construction trades, and welding programs. This creates a clear pathway to full-time employment and career growth. In addition, they welcome students in the SkillsUSA organization to participate in OSHA reviews at their business, which gives students authentic, real-world experiences that strengthen both their technical skills and workplace readiness. 

Garton’s dedication to student success extends well beyond graduation, as demonstrated through their scholarship program. In the past year, Garton’s Rigging awarded scholarships to eight students to support their futures in automotive, construction trades, cosmetology, culinary arts, engineering, and welding.