ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. — Leaders from Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC) and U.S. Army Garrison Fort Knox on Tuesday celebrated a new partnership that strengthens civilian career opportunities for soldiers at Fort Knox and across the globe.
The new Advanced Manufacturing Army Career Skills Program (CSP) gives soldiers a path to train in three areas: computer aided drafting and design, electrical technology and engineering and electronics technology. Each program offers an opportunity to earn industry certificates that lead to in-demand careers. The training is available to soldiers at any duty station who have 180 or fewer days of service remaining.
ECTC and Fort Knox officials signed a memorandum of understanding Tuesday, followed by tours of ECTC advanced manufacturing training facilities.
“Serving our military members and veterans has always been a top priority for ECTC, and we look forward to helping them prepare for success in the thriving advanced manufacturing field through this new program,” said ECTC President Dr. Juston Pate. “We are very proud to partner with Fort Knox and to create a new talent pipeline for our region’s employers.”
Fort Knox leaders also touted the partnership between the post and the college.
“ECTC and Dr. Pate’s partnership with Fort Knox is remarkable,” said Col. Pat Kaune, Fort Knox garrison commander. “I greatly appreciate their dedication and commitment to bringing this program to fruition, which will ultimately help our soldiers long after they’ve taken off the uniform.”
In addition, the advanced manufacturing CSP presents an opportunity for employers and the broader community, said Knox Regional Development Alliance President and CEO Jim Iacocca.
“Military talent from across the Army will train at ECTC, and we have a unique opportunity to show them all that the Greater Fort Knox Region has to offer and connect them to local employers who are hiring now.” Iacocca said.
The advanced manufacturing sector is experiencing tremendous growth in the communities served by ECTC and beyond, creating careers — not just jobs — for workers with the right skills, Pate said.
“When you pair high-quality advanced manufacturing training with the work ethic and leadership of a U.S. Army Soldier, you develop talent that will not only meet the needs of today’s businesses, but also help those companies grow and create new opportunities,” Pate said.
Students will train tuition-free through the Work Ready Scholarship. Further, Fort Knox will provide no-cost housing, making the program even more accessible to transitioning soldiers interested in advanced manufacturing careers.
Soldiers interested in the program should contact Harriet Taylor at The Education Center at Fort Knox at 502-624-8246. For more information on ECTC programs, visit Elizabethtown.kctcs.edu.