Technical College of the Lowcountry

Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL) stands as a cornerstone of accessible education in South Carolina's Lowcountry, serving a vibrant student body of 2,196. As a public community college, TCL is dedicated to providing essential technical skills and career pathways, significantly contributing to the economic and social fabric of its four-county service area encompassing Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties.

TCL's history is both rich and profoundly impactful, tracing its extraordinary origins back to the Mather School, established in 1868 by Rachel Crane Mather. This visionary institution initially sought to provide education for children of newly freed slaves in Beaufort County, laying a foundational commitment to empowerment and community upliftment. This legacy continued as the school transitioned its operations to the State of South Carolina in 1967, becoming an integral part of the rapidly developing statewide technical college system.

Over the decades, the institution evolved through various names, including the Beaufort Regional Training Center and Beaufort Technical College, continually expanding its reach and educational offerings. It finally achieved its current name in 1988, reflecting its dedication to the broader Lowcountry region. Today, under the leadership of President Richard J. Gough, TCL upholds its commitment to fostering student success through practical education, preparing individuals for the demands of the modern workforce and serving as a vital resource for regional development.