A New Learning Hub Rises in Knoxville

Knoxville is buzzing with a major construction project that's hard to miss if you drive on I-40. This isn't just any building; it's a big deal for the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT). They're putting up a massive new structure right on their campus, smack dab between the Liberty Street overpass and the Middlebrook Pike exit. Picture a huge parking lot that almost reaches the interstate—that's where the action is happening. The project is being handled by Denark Construction, and they're not just building any old classrooms. Think modern, think spacious, think high-tech labs. The goal? To boost TCAT's ability to train students for real-world jobs. The new building will be a whopping 105, 000 square feet and three stories tall. It's not just about expanding; it's about adapting to what the workforce needs right now. And how do they know what's needed? By teaming up with local businesses and industry experts to figure out what skills are in demand.This whole project is part of Gov. Bill Lee's TCAT Master Plan, which is pouring a cool $1 billion into upgrading these colleges across the state. Construction kicked off in December 2024, and just over a year later, things are really taking shape. The auto and diesel labs are coming along nicely, and classes are still going on as usual. It's a busy scene—while one part of the building is getting its roof, another part is getting concrete poured. Talk about multitasking! Once the new building is done, the work isn't over. Denark will move on to Phase 3, which involves renovating the existing building. Future phases are still in the works, but one thing's for sure: this is a complex project that shows how construction can keep moving, even when school is in session. So, what's the big deal about TCAT Knoxville? They offer programs that focus on jobs people actually need, like automotive tech, construction, cybersecurity, nursing, and welding. These aren't just random classes; they're designed to get students ready for careers that are in demand.