Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville (TCAT-Shelbyville) stands as a cornerstone for workforce development, committed to equipping students with the precise skills demanded by today's industries. As a public technical college, TCAT-Shelbyville prides itself on its hands-on, career-focused education, serving a diverse student body of 600 individuals under the leadership of President Jimmy Wright. Its impactful motto, "Workforce Development Its What We Do," truly encapsulates its mission to provide a direct pathway to meaningful employment and professional success.

Established through legislative action in 1963 and opening its doors on November 30, 1964, TCAT-Shelbyville quickly became a vital educational resource. Initially offering six foundational programs—Air Conditioning/Refrigeration, Auto Mechanics, Drafting, Industrial Electricity, Machine Shop, and Welding—the institution has a rich history of adapting and expanding to meet evolving workforce needs. Governance shifted from the Tennessee Department of Education to the Tennessee Board of Regents in 1983, signifying its growing stature and integration within the state's higher education system. The college's commitment to growth is evident through multiple facility expansions in 1981, 1996, and significant renovations in 2008-2009, bringing its total footprint to approximately 61,250 square feet.

TCAT-Shelbyville’s academic strength lies in its practical, skills-based training, ensuring graduates are job-ready from day one. Its reach extends far beyond Shelbyville, serving individuals from Bedford, Coffee, Franklin, Lincoln, Marshall, Moore, and Rutherford counties. The college continues to innovate and expand its accessibility, with plans to open new facilities in Winchester by 2019, broaden programs to Lewisburg and Lincoln County, and introduce specialized offerings like an Airframe and Powerplant program in Winchester by 2020. This forward-thinking approach, coupled with its name evolution from Tennessee Technology Center to Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville, reflects its continuous dedication to providing relevant, high-quality technical education.