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KILGORE COLLEGE LONGVIEW: Pioneering A Bright Future in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Technology
Kilgore College is proud to announce a significant milestone in its commitment to providing top-tier education in the field of advanced manufacturing and industrial technology. The institution hosted a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new home of KC's Advanced Manufacturing Institute and The University of Texas at Tyler's Industrial Technology program.
The Manufacturing Technologies program at Kilgore College is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for rewarding careers in manufacturing, with a specialized focus on mechanical, electrical, machining, and automation. The program offerings will include a Manufacturing Technology Associate of Applied Science degree, along with two certificate programs: Manufacturing Certificate-Machining and Manufacturing CertificateMechanical Electrical.
This innovative program was developed in close collaboration with a regional advisory committee of industry leaders who identified a pressing need for skilled professionals in the East Texas area. Kilgore College worked hand-in-hand with these industry partners to create a training path that leads to well-paying jobs in the manufacturing sector.
D'Wayne Shaw, Kilgore College's Executive Dean of Professional and Career Education, emphasized the program's adaptability to the ever-evolving technologies in the manufacturing industry, ensuring that students remain competitive and industry-ready.
In a groundbreaking move, The University of Texas at Tyler will offer upper-level Industrial Technology courses at the KC-Longview campus, starting this fall. This collaboration will extend to include all upper-level courses at the KC-Longview location in the near future.
Dr. Rodney Ellis, LUC Director, expressed excitement about this development, highlighting the benefits it brings to Longview and Gregg County students aspiring to earn a four-year degree in industrial technology. The newly renovated industrial technology space at KC-Longview and dedicated shop space enhance the educational experience.
The transition will also positively impact KC students already enrolled in the industrial maintenance program and the new manufacturing technology program commencing in the fall, as per D'Wayne Shaw.
Thanks to a collaborative agreement signed by both institutions last summer, students enrolled in specified KC programs can seamlessly transition to UT Tyler, with the assurance that their credits will be accepted by the university. This unique partnership guarantees uninterrupted educational pathways, from KC's associate degree programs to baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate degree programs offered by UT Tyler. Additionally, the Longview University Center (LUC) currently hosts KC students, granting them access to UT Tyler services right here in Longview.
Kilgore College's dedication to advancing education in advanced manufacturing and industrial technology, coupled with its strategic partnership with UT Tyler, is set to transform the educational landscape and empower students with opportunities for success in the dynamic world of manufacturing and technology.
