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April 3, 2026
Tennessee Board of Regents
At first glance, Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Murfreesboro’s machine tool lab at its Smyrna campus is a sight to behold. The lab is part of a 162,000-square-foot technical training center that is jointly occupied by the college and Nissan USA.
Instructor Mike Schoen believes it is a space that is a major draw for those looking to enter a program with unlimited career opportunities.
“Many of my students end up in the machine tool field, either as operators or programmers,” Schoen said. “Some have even gone into the sales side of the industry because they understand the concepts we teach here – including cutting theory. This type of experience makes them more successful at selling the parts their employers create.”
With communities across Tennessee experiencing a resurgence in the nuclear energy industry sector, TCAT Murfreesboro’s Machine Tool Technology program has also become a home for those considering a possible pathway into a nuclear-related career.
“I always loved working with my hands, and my grandfather was a diesel mechanic,” said Murfreesboro’s Lawson Brandon. “Once I enrolled in the machine tool program at Rockvale High School, that experience changed everything for me. I understand how important machining is to every industry. Now, we also have a hand in sectors like nuclear and aerospace; it’s very satisfying to be a part of the next phase of technological advancement.”
Nate Waddell, who is also from Murfreesboro and a student in Schoen’s class, agrees that machining is at the foundation of every industry across America.
“It is really fun and very exciting to learn about all of the careers available to program graduates,” said Waddell. “There are all kinds of options from small engine shops to larger companies. Even nuclear companies will need workers from this program to assist with facility construction.”
Students who succeed in the Machine Tool Technology program tend to be creative, have good hand-eye coordination and mechanical aptitudes. Each of these qualities can be strengthened by TCAT Murfreesboro’s program.
“Machining is a very patriotic career, and America’s national defense depends on the parts machinists create,” Schoen added. “With the re-emergence of the nuclear energy sector in Tennessee, I think this is a very exciting time for machinists and students alike; there will be many jobs related to building nuclear components on their way to Tennessee.”
In addition to the nuclear energy sector, program graduates have advanced into high-demand, rewarding careers in the medical, automotive and weapon manufacturing industries. The opportunities for graduates of TCAT Murfreesboro’s Machine Tool Technology program are unlimited!
For more information about TCAT Murfreesboro’s Machine Tool Technology program and other opportunities, please visit the TCAT Murfreesboro website.
