TCAT’s Crossville, Livingston, and McMinnville campuses listed among the top vocational schools in the country according to USA Today.
USA Today ranked vocational schools based on cost, diversity, graduation rates, salary, and social mobility. TCAT Upper Cumberland President Cliff Wightman said it was great to get national recognition.
“In a way, it’s something that we have always known,” Wightman said. “We have a proven track record of workforce development and entry-level skilled training. And it was just sort of the icing on the cake to be featured in something that is seen across the nation.”
TCAT facilities were the only institutions in Tennessee to make the list. Wightman said being consistent in listening to local industry is what sets TCAT apart from other vocational institutions.
“We are constantly changing, constantly upgrading all of our programs to adapt to things that are changing and upgrading in the industry as well,” Wightman said. “And I think that’s the key factor to it, is that communication factor of always knowing what is out there and even being ready for what’s up and coming.”
Wightman said the honor highlights the opportunity and success that TCAT can provide students. Wightman said the honor sends a message that there is an opportunity and an avenue for success at TCAT.
“If you go to a TCAT and you are focused, we will give you training that will provide you a position with an industry,” Wightman said. “We have provided positive of that. A lot of our students have went on and have businesses that are now hiring graduates from our programs, so I think that would be one instance it would send a clear message to everyone.”
Wightman said it was a joint effort from students. With three schools from the Upper Cumberland region making the list, Wightman said he believes our region plays a major role in the TCAT’s success.
“We are a rural region, but we still have a lot of room to expand for industries that are potentially looking at this area,” Wightman said. “Add along the state of Tennessee being such a great attraction for industry, with incentive programs at the Tennessee Department of Economic Development, and the people in the governor’s office offer. In addition to that, being that the proximity of I-40 corridor and not too far away from the Nashville corridors, or the Interstate 81 Knoxville corridor, and I-75. I think it makes us a prime location being in this area in the Upper Cumberland.”
Wightman said he hopes TCAT can use the honor to keep carrying momentum in creating opportunities and delivering student success.
