🏆 TCAT Upper Cumberland Celebrates Two Staff Nominees for 2027 SOAR Awards

Technical education in the Upper Cumberland region is built on the dedication of instructors and coordinators who go beyond the classroom to support students and expand career pathways. TCAT Upper Cumberland at Bledsoe County has announced two nominees for the Tennessee Board of Regents’ prestigious Statewide Outstanding Achievement Recognition (SOAR) Awards, recognizing the impact these educators make on students’ futures.

📍 Recognition for Excellence in Technical Education

The SOAR Awards, hosted annually by the Tennessee Board of Regents, honor outstanding individuals who strengthen technical education and transform student lives across Tennessee. TCAT Upper Cumberland’s two nominees represent different but equally vital roles in the institution’s mission to build careers and connect learners with industry credentials. 🎓

⭐ Meet the Nominees

William “Bill” Bruce serves as the Career and Education Initiative (CEI) Coordinator and VETS Bravo Campus Liaison at TCAT Upper Cumberland. In his role, Bill works to expand educational opportunities, support military-connected students, and help individuals access valuable industry credentials and specialized training. His work bridges the gap between students’ backgrounds and the skills employers need.

Denver “Rocky” Jones is an instructor in the Diesel Powered Technology program, where he teaches students the hands-on skills and technical knowledge required for careers in the diesel and powered equipment industries. Rocky’s classroom work directly shapes the next generation of technicians and equipment specialists in the region. 🔧

🗓️ What Happens Next

The winners of the ninth annual SOAR Awards will be announced on March 31, 2027, in Nashville. These nominations reflect the broader commitment at TCAT Upper Cumberland to workforce development and student success-a mission that extends across the Upper Cumberland and serves learners seeking practical, career-focused training. ✨

Community members and students who have benefited from the work of Bill, Rocky, and the broader TCAT Upper Cumberland team are encouraged to celebrate these nominations and the institution’s ongoing role in preparing the region’s workforce.