In a surprise announcement near the end of the groundbreaking ceremony for SR 33, Representative Dennis Powers stated that Union County would be receiving $9M to build a Tennessee College of Applied Technology and a community college adjacent to Union County High School. According to Powers, the construction would become a model for higher education across Tennessee.
County Mayor Jason Bailey added that seniors would be graduating with work ready certifications, additional dual enrollment courses, and possibly a high school diploma and an associate degree at the same time.
The TCAT will offer courses in diesel mechanics, welding, HVAC, and lineman technology among others. Both the TCAT and Walters State Community College will be available to adults as well as high school students. Another state grant will provide $1M in funding for equipment. With the passage of the state budget last week, the construction is assured and may be available for student enrollment by 2024.
Exclaimed Bailey, “This will change lives!”