Tag: Chamber of Commerce

Siemens Healthineers Announces Tennessee Manufacturing, R&D Expansion

Posted on September 9, 2026 by jmuir - Uncategorized

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Deputy Gov. and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter and Siemens Healthineers Molecular Imaging officials announced today the company is expanding its manufacturing operation in Blount County.

Siemens Healthineers has invested $43.6 million and will create more than 90 new jobs in the next five years at the company’s Dunavant Drive facility in Rockford. The location houses Siemens Healthineers Molecular Imaging’s (MI) PET Detector Center for research and development (R&D) and material production.

The project will enable Siemens Healthineers to boost production capacity for its PET detector technology to accommodate increasing customer demand and the launch of new PET/CT product lines. The PET detectors manufactured on the Dunavant Drive campus capture gamma rays that are emitted when a patient is injected with a radiopharmaceutical. PET/CT scanners translate these captured gamma ray signals into images that help clinicians measure metabolic activity and visualize various forms of disease, including cardiac disease, Alzheimer’s disease and many forms of cancer.

QUOTES

“Tennessee stands out nationwide as one of the best places to do business because of the global brands like Siemens Healthineers that have shaped our state’s economy and business climate over the years. I am proud to take part in announcing nearly 100 new jobs that will create greater opportunity for the families across East Tennessee and look forward to seeing this company’s success in the region.” – Gov. Bill Lee

“We are making significant investments in our research and development sector now to ensure Tennessee is positioned to attract the jobs of the future. Siemens Healthineers’ investment to expand its manufacturing and build out R&D across the company’s Rockford and Maryville facilities strengthens the state’s growing innovation ecosystem, and we are grateful for their continued partnership and commitment to Blount County.” – Deputy Gov. and TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter

“Siemens Healthineers is grateful to the state of Tennessee for supporting the construction and renovation of our Rockford PET Detector Center. This project will increase our production capacity and customer access to our PET/CT scanners to meet the rapidly growing clinical demand for PET/CT imaging in the U.S. and internationally.” – James Williams, PhD, head of molecular imaging, Siemens Healthineers

“Congratulations to Siemens Healthineers on its decision to expand operations and create new job opportunities in the Valley. TVA is proud to work alongside Alcoa Electric Department, Maryville Electric Department and our many economic development partners to support companies like Siemens as they commit to continued investment in the region. We celebrate this announcement together and look forward to Siemens’ continued business success.” – Heidi Smith, vice president of economic development, TVA

“Siemens Healthineers has been an outstanding corporate partner and employer in Blount County for many years. Their expansion reflects both the success of their operation and the advantages of doing business in our community. We appreciate their investment in our workforce, their commitment to innovation and the economic opportunities this project will bring to our county.” – Blount County Mayor Jared Anderson and Former Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell

“The completion of these significant expansions demonstrates why Blount County continues to attract and retain world-class manufacturers. Siemens Healthineers’ growth reinforces the importance of strategic economic development investments that support job creation, advanced technology and long-term economic prosperity. We are proud to see these projects come to fruition and look forward to the company’s continued success.” – Greg Wilson, chair, Blount County Industrial Development Board

“Siemens Healthineers’ $43.6 million investment is a significant commitment to Blount County that will create more than 90 new jobs and strengthen our region’s growing economy. I’m proud to welcome these two projects to Rockford and Maryville and appreciate Siemens Healthineers for choosing to expand its presence and invest in our talented workforce.” – Sen. Tom Hatcher (R-Maryville)

“It’s always encouraging to see an established company in our community continue to invest and grow here in Blount County. Siemens Healthineers’ investment is a great reflection of the strong workforce and business environment here. I’m grateful for their continued partnership and excited to see this investment create new opportunities for local families.” – Rep. Jerome Moon (R-Maryville)

About Siemens Healthineers
Siemens Healthineers pioneers breakthroughs in healthcare. For everyone. Everywhere. Sustainably. The company is a global provider of healthcare equipment, solutions and services, with activities in more than 180 countries and direct representation in more than 70. The group comprises Siemens Healthineers AG, listed as SHL in Frankfurt, Germany and its subsidiaries.

As a leading medical technology company, Siemens Healthineers is committed to improving access to healthcare for underserved communities worldwide and is striving to overcome the most threatening diseases. The company is principally active in the areas of imaging, diagnostics, cancer care and minimally invasive therapies, augmented by digital technology and artificial intelligence. In fiscal 2025, which ended on September 30, 2025, Siemens Healthineers had approximately 74,000 employees worldwide and generated revenue of around €23.4 billion. Further information is available at siemens-healthineers.com.

About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) TNECD is the state’s primary agency committed to fostering economic growth through job creation and community development. By attracting new corporate investment and facilitating the growth of existing businesses, the department works to strengthen Tennessee’s competitive landscape. Additionally, TNECD strives to increase the economic prosperity for all Tennesseans by providing grants to communities statewide, helping them to become vibrant, business-friendly environments where companies can flourish. For more information, visit us at tnecd.com. Join the conversation on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

Muse Knoxville Introduces Young Students to Aviation Careers

Posted on August 14, 2026 by jmuir - Uncategorized

Muse Knoxville’s planned Sky & Beyond exhibit zone

A new interactive aviation experience planned for Muse Knoxville’s expanded science and discovery center will introduce children and youth to the science of flight and the growing career opportunities available in East Tennessee’s aviation industry, building on regional workforce development efforts led by the Blount Partnership.

The aviation experience will be part of Muse Knoxville’s planned Sky & Beyond exhibit zone at its future home in the Jacob Building in East Knoxville. The larger expansion will transform the building into a multigenerational science center with expanded opportunities for hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) learning.

As Muse develops the new science center, the organization has engaged students, educators and industry partners to help shape its exhibits and programming. That process has included participation in the Blount Partnership’s Aviation Workforce Committee, where Muse has heard directly from employers and educators about the skills, technology and career pathways shaping the industry. That input is helping inform the aviation component of the Sky & Beyond experience.

“Workforce development starts long before someone applies for their first job,” said Jessica Belitz, director of workforce development for the Blount Partnership. “It starts when a child has an experience that sparks curiosity or helps them imagine a future they had never considered. Our collaboration with Muse gives us an opportunity to build that awareness early and connect it to real career pathways in our region.”

The collaboration is part of a broader effort to introduce Blount County students to aviation careers. In 2025, Pellissippi State Community College launched its FAA-certified Aviation Technology program at its Blount County campus in collaboration with the Blount Partnership and regional aviation partners. The program prepares Airframe and Powerplant maintenance technicians, with its first class graduating this year.

The Partnership is also using a TVA Workforce Invest grant to purchase two We Build It Better programs, which expose area middle school students to industry tools, technology and technical skills through hands-on STEAM and aviation-related activities.

“Children learn best when they can see, touch and explore the world around them, and aviation gives us an incredible way to bring so many STEAM concepts to life,” said Katie Mixon, Muse Vice President of Advancement. “Working with the Blount Partnership and its Aviation Workforce Committee has allowed us to learn directly from people working in and preparing students for this industry. We want children to leave Muse excited about how flight works and beginning to imagine where that curiosity could take them.”

Muse’s connection to Blount County extends beyond the new exhibit. Since 2020, nearly 70,000 elementary students from Alcoa City Schools, Blount County Schools, Maryville City Schools and Clayton-Bradley Academy have participated in Muse field trips and STEM in the Classroom experiences at no cost to their schools or families, thanks to a long-standing partnership with Clayton. Mr. Jim Clayton, founder of Clayton, and the Clayton Family Foundation have invested $25 million into the Muse Capital Project and have prioritized aviation as a focus of Muse’s expansion.

“We want young people growing up in our community to know these opportunities exist,” Belitz said. “A student might first become interested in aviation through a Muse experience, explore those skills further in middle school and eventually discover there is a training program available right here in Blount County.”

Muse Knoxville’s expansion will transform the city-owned Jacob Building in East Knoxville into a multigenerational science center. More than $28 million has been committed to the project, including a $25 million investment from the Clayton Family Foundation. The expansion, which includes the conceptual Sky & Beyond exhibit zone, is expected to be completed in September 2028.

Local Schools, Students Benefit from Construction Grants and Scholarships

Posted on May 15, 2026 by jmuir - Uncategorized

Dawson Simerly, Brian Davis (Danny Davis Electric), Colin Stringer

Five local schools received classroom grants through the Foundation for Future Building Trades—four high schools were awarded $2,000 each and one junior high received $1,000—to support hands-on construction education. In addition, seven students earned scholarships totaling $7,500 to further their education or purchase tools for careers in the construction industry.

William Blount HS Greg Newman, James Sackermann, Gabe Tucker, Orin Patton, Jared Roberts, Cassandra Swett, Denver Hunt

Classroom grants were awarded to the following schools.

Heritage High School – Instructor Jason Tipton will lead students in constructing a 10’ x 12’ storage shed, teaching framing techniques and foundational layout skills including flooring, walls, rafters, doors, and windows.
William Blount High School – Instructor Doug Blair will oversee two projects including flag-building in a fundamentals class and Adirondack chair construction for year one students. Both projects emphasize tool safety, measurement, and hands-on craftsmanship.
Maryville High School – Instructor Brandon McMurrary will oversee three projects including birdhouse building in a fundamentals class, wooden car building in a residential construction 1 class, and stair system building in a residential construction 2 class.
Eagleton College and Career Academy – Instructor Steven Geiger will utilize funding in both the HVAC and Electrical programs, specifically for consumables and a HVAC line set. The remainder of the funds will be utilized to expand the tool inventory for the classroom.
Maryville Junior High School – Instructor Jeremy Russell will utilize funding to replace equipment and provide materials for storage shelving, which will be built by students in his courses.

Scholarships were awarded to the following students.

Cassandra Swett, William Blount High School – $1,250
Gabriel Tucker, William Blount High School – $1,100
James Sackermann, William Blount High School – $900
Orin Patton, William Blount High School – $900
Jared Roberts, William Blount High School – $850
Colin Stringer, Maryville High School – $1,275
Dawson Simerly, Maryville High School – $1,225

Students applied for scholarships to support either continued education or the purchase of tools and equipment needed for employment in the construction field.

These awards were made possible through the consolidation of nearly $450,000 from the former Builders & Associates of Blount County chapter into the Foundation for Future Building Trades. The Foundation funds classroom grants and scholarships with a focus on residential construction, aiming to grow the pipeline of skilled workers in the local construction industry.

The initiative is overseen by the Blount Partnership’s Construction Workforce Advisory Committee, which manages grant and scholarship disbursements.

“We are excited to provide these opportunities to local students and are committed to helping shape the future of the construction industry, particularly in residential building,” said Blount Partnership’s Director of Workforce Development Jessica Belitz. “These scholarships and grants will not only help students succeed but will also strengthen the local workforce, ensuring that our community has access to highly skilled professionals for years to come.”

The Foundation is actively seeking donations to sustain and grow this effort, which aligns with broader goals of workforce development and regional economic growth.

Photo cutlines:

William Blount High School recipients (L-R): Greg Newman (Foundation for Future Building Trades), James Sackermann, Gabe Tucker, Orin Patton, Jared Roberts, Cassandra Swett, Denver Hunt (Foundation for Future Building Trades).
Maryville High School recipients (L-R): Dawson Simerly, Brian Davis (Danny Davis Electric), Colin Stringer.

More than 75 Students Ink with Companies on Blount County Job Signing Day

Posted on May 12, 2026 by jmuir - Uncategorized

Cherokee Millwright signed three at Blount County Job Signing Day

More than 75 students from area high schools took part in the sixth annual Blount County Job Signing Day activities at the Airport Hilton as they inked with 38 local employers to begin their careers.

These seniors either took career and technical education (CTE) courses on a career pathway, earned an industry certification in school, or participated in work-based Learning (WBL).

“We talk a lot about keeping talent here in Blount County, and I mean that,” said Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell. “We want our best and brightest to know there are real opportunities right here at home. You don’t have to leave to build a great life, have a great career, and make a difference.

“Now let me say something that needs saying — college is a great path for many people, but it is not the only path. Success doesn’t come from one road. It comes from hard work, showing up on time, treating people right, and being willing to keep learning.”

Students are taking positions in welding, media production, construction, nursing, cosmetology, advanced manufacturing, electrical apprenticeships, and more.

Some of the companies offering these students positions are Yearwood Motorsports, Xtreme Tower Products, Wilson Brothers Plumbing, Anderson Lumber, Blount County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Millwright, Prisma Total Rehabilitation, Garner Automotive, Blackberry Farm, Knoxville Area Transit, Allevia Technology, ICC International, DCS Electronics, Massey Electric, Joseph Construction, Danny Davis Electric, Roger L. Newman Company, and Morningview Village Senior Community.

Presented by the Blount Partnership, signing day promotes the notion that although every student’s path may be different, and sometimes nontraditional, there are opportunities for meaningful careers in Blount County. It also celebrates the fact that there are multiple opportunities for high school students to explore and begin preparing for careers. Some students are going on to start their careers full-time, some are going to continue a combination of school and work, and some are going to work now with the plan of starting school later.

“These students have earned this moment through career and technical education, work-based learning, internships, industry certifications, and dedication in the classroom and beyond. They are proving there are many pathways to success, and today we celebrate each one of them,” said Blount Partnership communications director Jeff Muir. “We believe these students deserve to be recognized with the same excitement and pride as any athlete signing to play at the next level. Today is their signing day, and this community is proud of them.”

Even sponsors included Cherokee Millwright, Prisma Healthcare, Blackberry Farm, EdFinancial, GEAR, Maryville City Schools Foundation, Massey Electric, TCAT, and Joseph Construction.

Nisus Corporation Becomes 100% Employee Owned

Posted on May 7, 2026 by jmuir - Uncategorized

Nisus Corporation is proud to announce its transition to a 100% employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), effective April 30, 2026. As an ESOP-owned company, Nisus begins a new era focused on shared success, long-term stability, and continued innovation.

This milestone was made possible through the collaboration of Nisus executive leadership and the Dietrich family, whose vision and support helped guide the transition. Founded in 1990 by Bud and Pat Dietrich with the introduction of Bora-Care®, Nisus has grown into a trusted leader in pest control and wood protection while remaining grounded in its people-first culture and commitment to environmentally responsible solutions. On the family’s decision, Pat Dietrich said, “Bud and I have always loved the people who make Nisus work. This was the perfect way to recognize their hard work and loyalty, and to protect what makes Nisus so special.”

President and CEO Lee Barrett and CFOO Valerie Brummitt played key roles in bringing employee ownership to fruition. “Our founders believed deeply in investing in their employees, community, and industry,” said Barrett. “This transition reflects the culture of care and generosity they built and creates meaningful opportunities for the dedicated team members who drive our success every day.”

As employee-owners, Nisus team members will build ownership in the company through annual share allocations tied to their service and contributions.

Nisus was advised by AmbroseAdvisors, a national investment banking firm specializing in employee ownership transactions. Michael Harden, Senior Managing Director at AmbroseAdvisors, noted, “The Dietrich family sought a path that would preserve the company’s future while benefiting employees, customers, leadership, and the community. Employee ownership creates lasting value for all stakeholders, and we were honored to support this transition.”

“We are excited to continue the legacy Bud and Pat built,” said Valerie Brummitt. “This transition is about more than ownership — it strengthens the values, culture, and commitment that have defined Nisus from the beginning.”

Lee Barrett added, “We are incredibly proud of the work we do at Nisus and honored to carry forward the foundation the Dietrichs created. Employee ownership positions us to build an even stronger future and expand our impact across pest control, wood protection, and beyond.”

Pictured (From left to right): Lee Barrett: President and CEO, Pat Dietrich: Founder, Valerie Brummitt: CFOO

Blount Partnership Receives TVA Workforce Invest Grant to Increase Local Training & Education Efforts

Posted on August 28, 2025 by jmuir - Uncategorized

The Blount Partnership announced that it was awarded a Workforce Invest Grant by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to support collaborative efforts in aviation training and education.

“This grant from TVA’s Workforce Invest program is a game-changer for Blount County,” said Jessica Belitz, Director of Workforce Development at the Blount Partnership. “It allows us to directly respond to the growing demand for skilled workers in aviation and other high-tech industries. By investing in training equipment, career exploration tools, and student scholarships, we’re not just preparing individuals for meaningful careers—we’re strengthening the economic future of our entire region.”

In response to the increasing demand for a trained workforce by business and industry, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), along with third-party consultant VisionFirst Advisors, developed an innovative initiative, known as Workforce Invest, in 2022. The goal of the program is to address critical workforce development needs.

The grant goes to support the aviation school specializing in aviation maintenance technology programming and aviation career exploration. TVA funding supports the purchase of training equipment and scholarships to support student fees which has seen investments of nearly $4 million.

“The aviation technology school initiative represents a powerful collaboration between education and industry,” said Dr. Patty Weaver, Vice President of External Affairs at Pellissippi State Community College. “With support from TVA’s Workforce Invest grant, we can offer hands-on training and career exploration that equips students with the skills needed in today’s workforce. This is more than a program—it’s a pathway to opportunity for our students and a boost for our local economy.”

The project is a partnership among a host of local community leaders including the Industrial Development Board of Blount County, Pellissippi State Community College, Cirrus Aircraft, Standard Aero, Endeavor Air, PSA Airlines, McGhee Tyson Airport, 134^th Air Refueling Wing, Alcoa City Schools, Maryville City Schools, Blount County Schools, Knox County Schools, Monroe County Schools, and the Knoxville Chamber.

The Tennessee Valley is a region abounding in geographic and economic opportunity. Workforce Invest, a first-of-its-kind program, leverages funds to develop a highly trained and qualified workforce to meet current and future market demands.

“TVA Economic Development is committed to our communities. Workforce Invest allows us to invest in programs that address the specific workforce and education needs at a local level. Each project funded provides needed training to residents while also fulfilling the needs of industry. We are proud to support our local economic development partners,” said John Bradley, Senior Vice President of Economic Development for TVA.

“Providing meaningful workforce training is a cornerstone issue of our national economy. TVA’s insight to develop the program will provide a multitude of opportunities not just for the participants but for entire communities. VisionFirst is thrilled to serve as the programmatic coordinator for Workforce Invest,” said Gray Swoope, President & CEO of VisionFirst Advisors.

Over the last four years, TVA has awarded Workforce Invest grants to more than 40 communities with a combined investment of $6 million.

Local Schools Awarded Classroom Grants and Student Scholarships to Support Future Construction Workforce

Posted on May 9, 2025 by jmuir - Uncategorized

Three local public schools received $2,500 each in classroom grants as part of a new initiative to support construction education and training, thanks to the newly established Foundation for Future Building Trades. In addition, six students were awarded scholarships totaling $6,000 to further their education or purchase tools and supplies for careers in the construction industry.

Classroom Grants Awarded:

Heritage High School – Instructor Jason Tipton will lead students in constructing a 10’ x 12’ storage shed, teaching framing techniques and foundational layout skills including flooring, walls, rafters, doors, and windows.
William Blount High School – Instructor Doug Blair will oversee two projects: flag-building in a fundamentals class and Adirondack chair construction for year one students. Both projects emphasize tool safety, measurement, and hands-on craftsmanship.
Maryville Junior High School – Instructor Jeremy Russell will utilize funding to enhance shop safety and efficiency by adding storage and dust collection systems, creating an environment conducive to learning and skill development.

Student Scholarships Awarded:

Colton Richardson, Heritage High School – $2,500
Christian Eggleton, William Blount High School – $1,500
Hunter Johnson, William Blount High School – $1,000
Brayden Sargent, William Blount High School – $500
Rafael Amos Sanchez, William Blount High School – $500

Students could apply for scholarships to support either continued education or the purchase of tools and equipment needed for employment in the construction field.

These awards were made possible through the consolidation of nearly $450,000 from the former Builders & Associates of Blount County chapter into the Foundation for Future Building Trades. The Foundation will fund classroom grants and scholarships with a focus on residential construction, aiming to grow the pipeline of skilled workers in the local construction industry.

The initiative is overseen by the Blount Partnership’s Construction Workforce Advisory Committee, which manages grant and scholarship disbursements.

The Foundation is actively seeking donations to sustain and grow this effort, which aligns with broader goals of workforce development and regional economic growth.

Photo 1 caption: Hunter Johnson, Braydon Sargent, Denver Hunt (Denver Hunt Construction), Rafael Sanchez, Christian Eggleton of William Blount High School each received a check.
Photo 2 caption: Greg Newman (Roger Newman Heating & Air) presents a check to Colton Richardson of Heritage High School.

PSA Airlines, McGhee Tyson Airport announce new maintenance base creating nearly 100 jobs

Posted on April 15, 2025 by jmuir - Uncategorized

PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group and leading regional airline, and McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) have agreed to terms for PSA to open and operate a maintenance base at the airport. As part of the deal, PSA will use the hangar previously occupied by a maintenance provider.

The TYS maintenance base will be PSA’s 10^th maintenance base. It will be fully operational by this summer and is a strategic addition that supports PSA’s growing fleet and will serve as a “B check” facility. “B checks” occur two to three times each year and are more in-depth than routine checks that are performed frequently.

“As we continue to grow our fleet and further strengthen our reliability, the addition of our new maintenance base at McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville is an important step forward,” said Dion Flannery, PSA President and Chief Executive Officer. “Knoxville has aviation-rich talent, and we’re excited about the opportunity to add local aviation maintenance expertise to the PSA team, further enabling PSA to deliver satisfied customers to their destination safely and on time.”

TYS Airport, City of Knoxville, and Blount County leaders echoed excitement about this new relationship and what it means for the area and its people.

“The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority is excited to welcome PSA Airlines’ maintenance base to McGhee Tyson Airport and thanks them for investing in our community,” said Patrick Wilson, President of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority. “This partnership reflects our strategic goal of promoting the continued growth of aerospace industry jobs and investments in our region. PSA’s announcement adds to an impressive list of aerospace companies and training opportunities already available in East Tennessee including the new aviation maintenance technician training school at Pellissippi State Community College in Blount County.”

“I want to welcome PSA Airlines Maintenance Base to East Tennessee and extend my gratitude for their commitment to open this new facility at McGhee Tyson,” said Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our Airport and our entire region. One of our major priorities is giving our young people the chance to succeed. This maintenance base is a tremendous opportunity for them and another reason our Aviation Academy at Pellissippi State in Blount County is so very important. The PSA maintenance facility is a great addition to the diverse aerospace employment and education opportunities already in our area.”

“I am excited to see more growth and expansion at McGhee Tyson Airport,” said Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon. “Adding nearly 100 new jobs and more investment in our region is a big win for us all.”

Great job opportunities for local aviation maintenance talent

PSA’s TYS maintenance base will employ nearly 100 team members, including aircraft maintenance technicians, leads, supply chain professionals for its Stores facility, and operations-focused Management and Support Staff.

Those interested in being considering for open roles in PSA’s new maintenance base, including aircraft maintenance technicians, aviation parts specialists and more should stop by PSA’s TYS Maintenance Base Career Fair, which is April 15 and 16 at the Hilton TYS Airport from 9 – 5 p.m. ET both days. Additionally, people can visit www.psaairlines.com to search and apply for career opportunities at the company’s TYS maintenance base and throughout its network.

PSA’s other maintenance bases are at Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT), Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dayton International Airport (DAY), Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), Norfolk International Airport (ORF), Pensacola International Airport (PNS) and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV).

The Foundation for Future Building Trades to fund Classroom Grants and Scholarships for Construction Careers

Posted on October 29, 2024 by jmuir - Uncategorized

The former Builders & Associates of Blount County chapter has consolidated its funds, totaling nearly $450,000, into the Foundation for Future Building Trades to support the next generation of construction professionals. These funds will establish classroom grants and scholarships designed to encourage students to pursue careers in construction, with a special emphasis on residential buildings.

Beginning in Spring 2025, Heritage High School, William Blount High School, and Maryville Junior High School will receive initial grants and scholarships amounting to $2,500 each per semester. Future expansion to other schools is anticipated, helping to broaden the reach of this initiative and further develop the local construction workforce pipeline.

The program is overseen by the Blount Partnership’s Construction Workforce Advisory Committee, which will manage the grant and scholarship disbursement. The fund aims to address the growing need for skilled workers in the construction industry by offering financial support to students, helping them build a foundation for their future careers in the field.

The Foundation for Future Building Trades is actively seeking donations to expand the program, ensuring a continuous and growing flow of trained professionals into the construction workforce. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to support economic growth and community development in the region.

“We are excited to provide these opportunities to local students and are committed to helping shape the future of the construction industry, particularly in residential building,” said Denver Hunt, former Builders & Associates of Blount County chapter representative. “These funds will not only help students succeed but will also strengthen the local workforce, ensuring that our community has access to highly skilled professionals for years to come.”

For more information on the Foundation for Future Building Trades or to make a donation, please contact the Blount Partnership at 865-983-2241.

Pellissippi State awarded $2M for new Aviation Technology degree

Posted on October 18, 2024 by jmuir - Uncategorized

Pellissippi State Community College has been awarded nearly $2 million through the third round of the Governor’s Investment in Vocational Education (GIVE) Grants, to support the creation of a two-year associate degree in Aviation Technology, with a focus on Aviation Maintenance Technician Training.

The new degree program, located at Pellissippi State’s Blount County Campus, will provide students with hands-on training in cutting-edge aviation technology, and allow them to work with emerging innovations in design, creation, testing, installation of aviation electronics, aircraft structures and mechanical systems.

“This is a tremendous collaboration with the Blount Partnership that will have a significant impact on our students and local businesses alike,” said Pellissippi State Vice President for External Affairs Patty Weaver. “With a widening gap between the number of retiring aircraft mechanics and those entering the field, this partnership ensures we are responsive to the workforce needs of area businesses who are seeking skilled professionals, while providing our students with meaningful career opportunities.”

The GIVE program, established in 2019, is designed to address skills gaps in Tennessee’s workforce by supporting the development of career pathways that connect postsecondary institutions with local K-12 school systems and local employers.

Grants of up to $2 million each are awarded through the GIVE program to collaborative efforts that create or expand academic programs, develop work-based learning experiences or provide industry-recognized certifications in areas of high demand.

“The state with the workers will win every time, and that’s why workforce development has been one of my top priorities since day one,” said Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee. “As a result, companies are choosing to invest and expand in our state, creating greater opportunity and quality of life for all Tennesseans.”

Pellissippi State’s program will equip students with the necessary skills to pursue careers as Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Maintenance Technicians. To graduate, they will need to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s certification exams, both in knowledge and practical skills.

Aircraft mechanics that graduate from this program will be in high demand for aviation jobs and in other fields that require high mechanical knowledge. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the aviation industry will need to fill approximately 12,000 aircraft mechanic positions annually to keep up with demand.

Pellissippi State’s new degree program aims to help bridge this gap by providing highly qualified graduates to meet workforce needs.

The GIVE Grant, along with the collaboration of industry partners and the Blount Partnership, plays a key role in helping Pellissippi State develop this degree, which will prepare students for successful careers in aviation maintenance.

“We are incredibly grateful for Governor Lee’s support through the GIVE 3.0 Grant,” Weaver said. “Over the next year, we’ll be developing the program with the goal of launching it for students in fall 2025.”