Monies part of 2018-2019 budget
(NASHVILLE) — State Representative Ryan Williams (R-Cookeville) has secured $3 million in funding for the College of Engineering at Tennessee Tech University.
The monies are a part of the 2018-2019 budget and will help further the university’s world-class program. The funding is a byproduct of several years of hard work, leadership, and advocacy by Representative Williams on behalf of Tennessee Tech, the College of Engineering, and House District 42.
Tennessee Tech’s College of Engineering was recently named one of the Best Value Engineering Schools of 2018, ranked 25th overall in the nation and number one in Tennessee according to a study conducted by Best Value Schools. The college is also nationally ranked among engineering programs by U.S. News & World Report.
Engineering is Tennessee Tech’s largest college with an enrollment of 2,623 undergraduate students, 106 master’s students and 105 doctoral students. Degrees offered include chemical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, general and basic engineering, manufacturing and engineering technology, and mechanical engineering.
“Our engineering program and our university are crown jewels both in Tennessee and nationally,” said Representative Williams. “I know this important funding will lead to future growth and also allow the College of Engineering to continue to serve as a global leader in innovation on the cutting edge of technology.”
“We know how important talent is as an economic driver, and Tennessee Tech has been critical in the creation of approximately 3,000 jobs in the Upper Cumberland in the past couple of years,” said Tennessee Tech President Phil Oldham. “We need to graduate more individuals ready to take on the roles related to engineering and technology careers. We appreciate the support Ryan Williams, Paul Bailey and Governor Haslam have shown to Tech and our College of Engineering.”
“Tennessee Tech’s College of Engineering provides exceptionally prepared graduates who are career-ready and who offer industry talent and leadership early in their careers,” said Tom Jones, chair of the Tennessee Tech Board of Trustees. “These graduates make an impact locally, nationally and internationally. This funding is a great step toward expanding Tennessee Tech’s ability to connect students and graduates to workforce and community needs.”
Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta) also led efforts in the Senate to secure this important funding.
“This investment in the Tennessee Tech Engineering school will go a long way moving the ball forward in making the Upper Cumberland more attractive for industry and better-paying jobs,” added Bailey.
Ryan Williams serves as Chairman of the House Republican Caucus. He also serves as a member of the House Finance, Ways & Means Committee and Subcommittee, as well as the House Government Operations, House Health, and the House Calendar & Rules Committees. Williams lives in Cookeville and represents House District 42, which includes a portion of Putnam County. He can be reached by email at [email protected] or by calling (615) 741-1875.