Cleveland, Tennessee: A Hub of Innovation and Education

Cleveland, Tennessee: A Hub of Innovation and Education

The Partnerships in Industry and Education (PIE) Center, located at 2337 Parker Street, has transformed from a manufacturing facility into a vital educational and vocational training center. Opened in 2017, this ambitious project, spearheaded by the Bradley County Schools, invested over $2 million to acquire the building previously owned by the American Uniform Co. Today, it serves as a collaborative space for high school students, post-secondary education, *nonprofits*, and various businesses.

What the PIE Center Offers

According to Brittany Cannon, the center’s director, the PIE Center is more than just a place for learning; it embodies *innovation*. “This is innovation, and innovation can’t be put in a box,” she states passionately. The effort to renovate the center cost around $36 million and spans an impressive 273,000 square feet for educational activities.

The PIE Center focuses on career and technical education, catering primarily to high school juniors, seniors, and select sophomores. Classes on offer include training in fields such as mechatronics, welding, machining, advanced health science, HVAC, and more. Furthermore, students also engage in a dual enrollment program with Cleveland State Community College.

Partnerships and Workforce Development

The PIE Center has built strong partnerships with local industries. Students often find employment opportunities with these businesses right after completing their training. One notable partner is Wright Brothers Construction, which has successfully hired more than 25 PIE Center students, boasting a remarkable 40% retention rate.

The center is home to various businesses and organizations, including McKee Foods, Wacker, and Duracell, among others. Each business agrees to work with students, enriching their learning experience. This collaboration is crucial in fostering a skilled workforce equipped for today’s job market.

Real-Life Impact on Students

The success stories emerging from the PIE Center illustrate its impact on students. Cannon recalls a significant turnaround for one high school student. Initially lacking motivation and struggling academically, this student found purpose at the PIE Center. “He started with us last year as a junior and was failing,” she explained. “Now he wants to come to school every day, working toward his diesel technology credential.” Such transformations highlight the center’s commitment to changing lives and uplifting the community.

A Bright Future Ahead

The PIE Center is more than just an educational facility—it serves as a catalyst for change in Bradley County. With ongoing support from local leadership and a clear vision for the future, the center aspires to create even more opportunities for students and local businesses alike. Brittany Cannon’s vision reflects this hope: “This place is changing lives,” she concluded. The PIE Center stands as a model of successful collaboration between education and industry, poised to make lasting impacts for years to come.