Workforce & Education

Skilled Workers in a Variety of Industries.

Monroe County, Tennessee has an excellent school system, several technical and higher education opportunities, and an educated and skilled workforce to prove it. Our wide range of skilled workers help businesses in the automotive, advanced manufacturing, boating and flooring industries thrive.

With a 91 percent graduation rate and the dual enrollment program with Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Athens, Monroe County schools are working to develop the next generation of skilled workers. The top graduates from the three high schools can meet with industry leaders who will encourage them to stay in the county after college. Hiwassee College, the American Job Center in Vonore and nearby Cleveland State Community College offer workforce development and continuing education training. Residents also have easy access to the University of Tennessee's Knoxville and Chattanooga campuses and Pellissippi State Community College.

Local businesses, such as Carlex Glass Company and JTEKT Automotive North America, have installed special equipment to offer on-the-job training. The Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Athen brings in teachers from Carlex and Yamaha. Because of the large boating industry in Monroe County, the Tellico Reservoir Development Agency is working to set up an institute for marine training.

Tennessee is leading the way in education reform by increasing the number of Tennesseans with college degrees or certifications through Tennessee Promise and TN Reconnect. As the only state in the country with these initiatives, Tennessee's higher education initiatives ensure employers have the support of highly skilled workers.

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION

Monroe County's trained workforce starts with the higher-than-average high school graduation rate of 91%. Area high school students can pursue dual enrollment at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Athens. The American Job Center at Vonore offers additional education opportunities for adults in the area.

Postsecondary options include Maryville College, Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Athens, Tennessee Wesleyan College and Hiwassee College.