Nissan Partners With Tennessee Education Bodies To Open Automotive Centers Of Excellence

Published: Thursday, August 1, 2024, 23:54 [IST]

This week, Nissan revealed the establishment of Centers of Excellence in Decherd, Tennessee. This initiative, in collaboration with the Tennessee Board of Regents, Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), and local schools, aims to boost workforce development and support the automotive industry's growth in the United States. The first group of students will start this August in Franklin, Grundy, Tullahoma, and Warren County high schools.

The program is tailored to prepare students for careers in the automotive sector by offering a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Courses will cover advanced manufacturing, mechatronics, and Industry 4.0 technologies. Each course was developed with industry experts to meet current standards and anticipate future job market needs.

Nissan employees will serve as full-time instructors at the Centers of Excellence in partnership with TCAT McMinnville and TCAT Shelbyville. "Nissan Centers of Excellence represent a major investment in the future of our workforce and the continued growth of Nissan in the United States," said David Johnson, regional senior vice president, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management and Purchasing, Nissan Americas. "By equipping students with the skills they need to excel in advanced manufacturing, we are not only supporting our local communities but also ensuring that Nissan remains at the forefront of innovation in the automotive industry."

"We are excited to partner with Nissan on this groundbreaking endeavor," said Flora W. Tydings, Chancellor of the Tennessee Board of Regents. "Nissan Centers of Excellence will provide invaluable opportunities for our students, fostering a strong pipeline of talent that will drive economic growth and innovation in Tennessee. This initiative exemplifies the power of collaboration between industry and education to create a brighter future for our communities."

Students enrolled in this program will have the chance to earn industry-recognised certifications upon completion. These certifications include four Manufacturing Skill Standards Council Certified Production Technician certificates, OSHA 10, Lean Six Sigma, and Fanuc Robot Operator Level I. These credentials will demonstrate their acquired skills and knowledge to potential employers.

Nissan's Commitment to Workforce Development

Nissan's powertrain plant in Decherd began as a 4-cylinder engine assembly plant in 1997. Today, over 1,700 employees assemble engines for various Nissan and INFINITI vehicles including Altima, Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder, QX60, Frontier, Patrol and TITAN models. The plant also assembles eMotors for LEAF vehicles. This facility represents a $1.4 billion USD investment by Nissan.

The launch of these Centers of Excellence underscores Nissan's commitment to sustainable mobility and workforce development. By investing in education and training programs like this one, Nissan aims to ensure its continued leadership in automotive innovation while supporting local communities.

For more information about Nissan products and services or their commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissanusa.com.