Aiken Tech Unveils Mobile Lab to Boost Rural Manufacturing Education with $4.9M Grant
Aiken Tech has unveiled a new mobile manufacturing lab, putting its $4.9 million U.S. Department of Labor grant to work, bringing hands-on training to South Carolina’s rural communities. The four-year grant helps schools address shortages in both manufacturing and nursing.
The 45-foot mobile unit comes packed with modern equipment. It accommodates 12 students who train on industrial machines powered by a heavy-duty diesel generator. Students learn mechanical assembly, electrical systems, and how to program advanced controllers.
Students in rural areas across 10 counties can now access quality training without traveling far to campus. High schools in smaller towns like Wagener and Salley can now offer dual enrollment classes using real manufacturing equipment.
“It’s about reaching the workforce needs of our region by creating access to life-changing opportunities for underrepresented groups,” Aiken Technical College President Dr. Forest E. Mahan said.
The mobile lab brings professional equipment right to the students. Three schools are involved in the project. Piedmont Tech and Orangeburg-Calhoun Tech partnered with Aiken Technical College to expand manufacturing training across the state.
