A major milestone has been reached by the AED Foundation which has accredited its 100th college program in an ongoing partnership program connecting students with educational institutions for training and workforce development.
The AED Foundation (AEDF) proudly announces a major milestone: the accreditation of its 100th college program, the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) – Harriman Heavy Equipment Service Technology Program.
This achievement highlights AEDF’s ongoing mission to strengthen the pipeline of skilled technicians entering the equipment industry, according to a Sept. 15 news release issued by the Schaumburg, Ill.-based organization. By earning accreditation, TCAT Harriman has demonstrated its commitment to meeting the Foundation’s rigorous industry standards and ensuring graduates are fully prepared to succeed in equipment service careers.
“Many years ago, the Tennessee College of Applied Technology Harriman became the first public higher education facility in Tennessee to offer a Diesel-Powered Equipment Technology Program,” said Chris Ayers, President of TCAT Harriman. “We are excited that our contributions to training skilled technicians in Tennessee has grown to a specialized Heavy Equipment Service Technician curriculum. By following the quality standards of the AED Foundation, we will join the AED Foundation in providing a highly skilled workforce in the equipment industry. TCAT Harriman will carry the pride of being the 100th school in the nation to become accredited as well as the first East Tennessee college to hold accreditation.”
AEDF’s accredited college programs provide students with a quality education aligned with AEDF’s Standards for Equipment Technology. These standards ensure programs are developed in close collaboration with industry leaders, guaranteeing graduates are well-prepared for the workforce. Students completing an accredited program earn a certificate and the title of AEDF Certified Technician, an essential credential signaling that they have met the industry’s highest training expectations.