Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $2 Million to Bolster Workforce Training in Tennessee

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross today announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2 million grant to Franklin County, Tennessee, to construct a workforce training facility at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 250 jobs, retain 20 jobs, and spur $7.5 million in private investment.

“The Trump Administration is committed to ensuring that American businesses have access to the world-class workforce that is essential for future growth,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “The advanced training opportunities that will be made available through the new Tennessee College of Applied Technology facility will help the local community meet the demand for a skilled workforce.”

“Today’s announcement is outstanding news for the people of Franklin County,” said U.S. Senator Bob Corker. “Not only will the Tennessee College of Applied Technology facility provide future generations with valuable training but it will also create new jobs and amplify local business opportunities. A skilled workforce is important to help communities grow economically, and I appreciate the Trump administration’s work to narrow the skills gap across the country.”

“The economy is producing new opportunities for Tennesseans. Manufacturing jobs are returning to our state and the Fourth District,” said U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. “Closing the skills gap, helping my constituents to acquire in-demand technical skills, is crucial to maintaining momentum. The Tennessee College of Applied Technology, where I have seen the faculty and students in action, is matching machinists, engineers and more with local employers. Many graduates will open successful businesses themselves.”

Training programs offered through the Tennessee College of Applied Technology will help local industries expand operations and attract new businesses to Franklin County. This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the South Central Tennessee Development District. EDA helps fund the South Central Tennessee Development District to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment, and create jobs.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.