This pandemic year has brought about many changes and great impacts to the world of higher education as it is known, Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville officials recently stated.

“The school year ended abruptly, but the hard work of educators didn’t stop,” said TCAT recruiter Bree Lemmons. “Teachers worked to provide online instruction for students, consultants with the TN Department of Education CORE offices dove into creating lessons through PBS to aid parents who picked up the role of teaching, and colleges nationwide scrambled to continues courses while protecting the health of students and faculty.”

Students, as a result, also took a hard hit. Kids of all ages missed the opportunity to play sports, pep rallies, competitions, college tours, and sadly, the Class of 2020 missed their traditional graduation ceremonies in May.

“Yes, 2020 has made a lasting impression on higher education. However, there are things that remain the same, and these things need to be embraced,” said the recruiter. Higher education is moving forward. TCAT-Shelbyville faculty and staff are working to create a safe environment for students in the midst of the pandemic. Staff are onsite to answer the phones and emails. Virtual campus tours are being offered so students can still check out the programs they are interested in from the safety of their homes. Physical tours are being offered again with modifications for student safety.”

TCAT’s fall trimester is scheduled to start Sept. 1. Current students are promised to receive the same high level of training and education they’ve always received.

“Industries that hire TCAT-Shelbyville students are getting employees that are completely competent and warrantied in their field of study,” said Lemmons. “What hasn’t changed is our dedication to student success, our commitment to be the premier supplier of workforce development, and our allegiance with our community and industry partners.”

TCAT’s message to the senior class of 2020 is a simple one: “If you haven't applied for college, now is the time.”

Established in 1963, The Tennessee College of Applied Technology- Shelbyville is a constituent college of the Tennessee Board of Regents and accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education. The college serves as a premier supplier of workforce development throughout the State of Tennessee. For more information, visit www.tcatshelbyville.edu or call 931-685-5013.