Classes begin Feb. 6 for heavy equipment operators, industrial maintenance mechanics, electricians
BY RACHEL DOVE
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Enrollment is open now at TEK Center, a new skilled trades training center in Inez offering heavy equipment operator, industrial maintenance mechanics and electrician courses.
TEK Center is located on the first floor of the Martin County Business Center and is set to begin classes Feb. 6, 2023.
Angie Reynolds, who has worked as a human resource officer for several industrial-type businesses, noted an ever-growing demand for a skilled trades workforce in our region. In July 2021, she founded TEK Center to help meet that demand by putting students on a fast track to nationally accredited certification.
“There’s not another school for adults like this in the state,” Reynolds said.
“I’m beyond excited to begin accepting applications for our center, and I know the county officials are as well. We now have an incredible opportunity to assist displaced coal miners and graduating seniors pursuing career options other than a traditional college or university.”
According to Reynolds, the center can accommodate up to 60 students in the heavy equipment operator program, 30 in industrial maintenance mechanics, and 30 in the electrician program.
Tuition costs for a 12-month course will be the student’s responsibility. However, Reynolds said students might qualify for financial assistance through a partnership with the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program. She expects federal financial aid to be available to students after the center is in operation for two years.
Courses will be 20 hours a week – eight hours Monday and Wednesday and four hours Friday.
“With classes only taking up 20 hours a week, this curriculum allows students to work a part-time job to help them out financially,” said Reynolds.
Students who begin training in February will graduate around the middle of December.
“In less than a year, our students will be certified and ready to enter the workforce in careers that pay above-average salaries,” said Reynolds.
Those completing the electrician training can get their journeyman license, allowing them to work anywhere in the United States. However, Reynolds hopes to see them employed by local companies.
TEK Center plans to expand courses to masonry, plumbing and carpentry in the next couple of years.
“There may also be others we add down the line, depending on need and demand,” said Reynolds.
Reynolds is pleased with the number of inquiries from area females and encourages them to enroll.
She expressed her gratitude for the cooperation and support of the Martin County Economic Development Authority and Judge/Executive Colby Kirk.
“This is definitely a step in the right direction to attracting businesses and factories to locate in Eastern Kentucky since finding skilled workers will no longer be an issue,” concluded Reynolds.
For more information, email Reynolds at angier@tekcenterinc.org, visit online at tekcenterinc.org and follow TEK Center’s Facebook page.