Alumni Profile: Tony Oliver '02

"Rabun Gap helped in preparation for my future goals by teaching me the importance of integrity. Because of their structure, their vision for their students, and mentorship, I was equipped with tools that I don’t believe I could have gained anywhere else."

Rabun Gap alum Tony Oliver '02 has been very busy since his graduation. Following his graduation from Rabun Gao, he attended Berea College on an academic scholarship. After college, he began his aviation career as an inspection engineer and Quality Control Manager. He currently works for an aviation company as the Director of Operations. He got married in 2012 and he and his wife have three children.

Since graduating from Rabun Gap, I attended Berea College in Kentucky on an academic scholarship. Shortly after graduating, I started my career in the aviation industry as an inspection engineer / Quality Control Manager. Currently, I am a Director of Operations for an aviation company. Over the years of my career, I received several certifications and many accolades. I married in 2012. We have 3 children, Anthony Jr., Scarlett, and Madison. 

Something interesting about me is that I am an avid fan of the UGA Bulldogs, love horror movies, and enjoy trying new recipes.

Rabun Gap helped in preparation for my future goals by teaching me the importance of integrity. Because of their structure, their vision for their students, and mentorship, I was equipped with tools that I don’t believe I could have gained anywhere else. To this day, I still embrace “work, study, worship."

My favorite memory of my time at Rabun Gap is working in the wood shop. I learned that there is a difference between gifts, talents, and skills. Working in the wood shop had shown me my true gift of working with my hands. 

For those that do not know, my grandmother was a dorm parent, while I was a student at Rabun Gap. Although she was in the girl’s dorm, nothing beats a homecooked meal and fellowship time with my grandmother. As far as faculty, I have two people that come to mind. First, would be Ms. Margaret Sloan. Her ability to deliver and teach precalculus, helped me understand math in ways that I was able to mentor and tutor others during my college years. My second, would be Mr. Dess Oliver. Being apart of his class helped me recognize my gift. To this day, I still enjoy working with my hands.

I wish someone had told me to understand the difference between your gifts, talents, and skills. And pick one that you will choose to inspire others.