TCAT UC Using Grant Money For New Equipment

TCAT Upper Cumberland will use some $450,000 in new grant money to buy hands-on equipment for its students.

The money from the Perkins Reimagine Engage And Develop for Innovation grant. TCAT Upper Cumberland Vice President for Organizational Effectiveness Stacy Johnson said the school plans to purchase Kubota equipment for Diesel Technology, a plasma cutter for welding, and ASE trainers for Automotive Technology.

“This will allow students to get that hands-on training and they are going to be able to see things that they will see once they get employed,” Johnson said. “So it is just going to help ensure our students have those practical skills that employers are looking for.”

Johnson said they will be purchasing equipment for the Livingston and Crossville campuses. Johnson said the equipment will help the school stay up to date with the industries as they are always constantly changing with the equipment being used.

“Our mission is to provide high-quality training for our students who graduate so that they have those skills when they go to work,” Johnson said.

Johnson said the plasma cutter has already been ordered and expects it to arrive within the next few weeks. Johnson said the school may see delays on a timeline for when they receive a majority of the equipment.

“Of course, you know the holidays are coming up and things,” Johnson said. “It could be January before some of it arrives.”

Johnson said the school is looking forward to receiving the equipment and is committed to equipping their students in the community for success in high-demand fields.