About TCAT Jackson
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Jackson has served West Tennessee for more than half a century. The college traces its roots to 1963, when the Tennessee General Assembly passed legislation creating a statewide system of vocational-technical schools designed to place accessible vocational education within commuting distance of every Tennessean. Classes began on the Jackson campus in September 1965 as the Jackson State Area Vocational-Technical School, with early offerings in Auto Mechanics, Auto Body Repair, Machine Shop, Civil Technology, Electronics, and Refrigeration. The first students graduated in 1966. In 1983, oversight transferred from the Tennessee Department of Vocational Education to the Tennessee Board of Regents. The school became the Tennessee Technology Center at Jackson in 1994 and, on July 1, 2013, was renamed Tennessee College of Applied Technology Jackson when all Tennessee Technology Centers adopted the new designation.
Today, TCAT Jackson helps people build the skills employers need. Whether you are finishing high school, starting fresh, or changing direction, the college offers focused, hands-on training that prepares students for real careers—often in a matter of months rather than years. Programs are built around three goals: entering a career field with in-demand skills, changing careers to pursue something new and rewarding, and advancing through the abilities that lead to promotion. Instructors bring real-world experience, programs reflect what local industries are hiring for, and graduates leave ready to work. For students and families, that means a clear, affordable path to a good-paying job and a stronger future.
As one of 23 technical colleges in a statewide system, TCAT Jackson plays a central role in regional workforce development. The college works directly with local employers to align training with the demands of the job market, offering full-time programs across high-demand fields, as well as short-term, customized industry training that responds quickly to specific employer needs. These programs often grow from direct conversations with employers or referrals from state agencies, creating a workforce pipeline that fills critical roles and strengthens the regional economy. By preparing residents for skilled careers, TCAT Jackson reduces barriers to opportunity, supports local industry, and contributes to a stronger Tennessee—fulfilling a long-standing public commitment to accessible, practical education that benefits individuals and communities alike.