A High Tech Training Center for Swain County

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Organization:

Southwestern Community College

Amount:

856023.02

Program Area:

Community Assistance Initiative

County of Applicant:

Swain

Year:

10/03/2013

Description:

The purpose of this grant is to provide funding to Southwestern Community College (SCC) to support a workforce training program that will primarily serve Swain County, but also reach into Macon and Jackson counties, which are part of SCC’s service area. In response to needs identified by local industry, SCC proposes to equip space within the Swain County Regional Business Education and Training Center with automation and robotic lab equipment to implement the mechatronics training program. The Mechatronics Engineering Technology (MET) curriculum is closely matched to the technical skill gaps in the local and regional workforce that have been identified by industries like ConMet in Bryson City. This project will address the needs for advanced manufacturing training via three pathways: (1) occupational training for incumbent employees; (2) certificate and associate degree programs in MET for adult students; and (3) dual enrollment Mechatronics certificate pathways for high school students. Golden LEAF funds will be used for equipment, supplies and personnel.

Contact:

Dr. Thomas Brooks
447 College Drive
Sylva, 
North Carolina 
28779 
(828) 339-4202