As part of AT&T’s continuing commitment to supporting quality education across Tennessee, the company has donated $3,000 to the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Jacksboro.   The contribution, presented Wednesday afternoon, will provide for the purchase of wireless networking equipment which will help support training for high-skill jobs requiring technology-based skills throughout Tennessee.

TOP PHOTO:  Alan Hill, Tony Hamblin, Debbie Petree, Dennis Powers and Tim Smith

“This type of support from private business is important as we work to find ways to advance higher education in East Tennessee,” said Debbie Petree, President, Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Jacksboro. “Expanding access to this sort of training gives our students the skills required to compete in today’s technology-based economy.”

This donation is part of AT&T’s $81,000 gift to the Tennessee Board of Regents. Funding will provide 26 TCATs up to $3,000 to purchase new wireless networking setups used to teach infrastructure design, security and planning, and to practice implementing and protecting networks and operating plans. As a result, students will have expanded opportunities to learn the skills they need for careers in information technology fields.

“We have worked hard to create a climate that is welcoming of new business which can be seen in the record growth Tennessee is experiencing,” said State Senator Ken Yager. “With this growth comes the need for a high-skill workforce and through programs like those offered at TCAT, graduates will be prepared to succeed in a modern workplace.”

“Higher education is one of the best ways to prepare a workforce that can meet the needs of Tennessee’s ever-growing economy,” said State Representative Dennis Powers. “Through programs like those offered at the College of Applied Technology in Jacksboro, pathways are created for non-traditional students to gain the skills they need to succeed, benefiting all Tennesseans.”

Happy handshakes all around as AT&T makes a contribution to TCAT at Jacksboro on Wednesday afternoon

Tennessee’s information technology and technical needs are growing at an exponential rate, creating increased demand for well-trained IT personnel that are crucial to the economic development of Tennessee businesses and industries.

“Through AT&T Aspire, we are focused on developing a 21st century workforce that can promote continued prosperity and a stronger economy across Tennessee,” said AT&T Tennessee Regional Director of External and Legislative Affairs Alan Hill. “We are excited to continue our support for the TCATs to help more students gain the high-demand skills necessary to compete for quality job opportunities and to empower more students to reach their highest potential.”

The 26 Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology are in: Athens, Chattanooga, Covington, Crossville, Crump, Dickson, Elizabethton, Hartsville, Hohenwald, Jacksboro, Jackson, Knoxville, Livingston, McKenzie, McMinnville, Memphis, Morristown, Murfreesboro, Nashville, Newbern, Huntsville, Paris, Pulaski, Ripley, Shelbyville and Whiteville. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 11/01/2018-6AM)

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