KCTCS Workforce Solutions serves nearly 2,700 companies and more than 21,000 students statewide

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System continues to make a significant and meaningful impact on the workforce and strengthen Kentucky’s economy by delivering customized training guaranteed to help the commonwealth thrive for years to come.

This year, KCTCS served nearly 2,700 companies and more than 21,000 students statewide. With 65,392 workforce-related enrollments in fields from advanced manufacturing and health care to information technology, logistics and skilled trades, KCTCS is preparing the next generation to succeed while they pursue the opportunities of today and anticipate the evolving demands of tomorrow.

Between summer 2025 and spring 2026, KCTCS produced 3,855 advanced manufacturing graduates, 9,200 health care graduates and 1,840 transportation graduates, while awarding more than 24,000 credentials across these critical workforce sectors.

“Our 16 colleges are more than institutions of higher education. They are engines of economic opportunity, strategically positioned in communities across the commonwealth to help meet regional workforce needs and support long-term academic success,” KCTCS President Ryan Quarles said.

Building on this impact, KCTCS Workforce Solutions connects students and employers with the training, resources and partnerships needed to succeed, serving as the commonwealth’s largest provider of employer-focused workforce training and talent development. Offering a first-of-its-kind employer engagement mapping system, Workforce Solutions provides a comprehensive view of employer partnerships across all 16 colleges and multiple departments, which strengthens workforce development, career opportunities and employer engagement by connecting education more directly to Kentucky's workforce needs.

“Whether you’re a family-owned shop, a statewide industry association or a global manufacturer, you can call KCTCS and get help preparing your people for what’s next,” said Emily Sayers, acting vice president of KCTCS Workforce and Economic Development.

As Kentucky’s workforce needs continue to evolve, Sayers said KCTCS workforce initiatives and funding programs like SWAT and TRAINS bring together business, education, government and workforce partners to better align Kentucky’s workforce development efforts and offset the cost of customized training for current and prospective employees.

“In 2026, more than $6.7 million in TRAINS funding supported 384 projects across Kentucky,” Sayers said. “TRAINS helps take cost off the table as a barrier, and we deliver the training. We take that role seriously, and it’s at the heart of our commitment to developing the talent Kentucky businesses need to grow.”

KCTCS continues to help Kentucky businesses meet their current workforce needs while looking ahead to emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and expanding training opportunities to prepare employees for the evolving demands of tomorrow’s workplace.

“Across KCTCS, we’re expanding opportunities in areas like AI and other advanced technologies so Kentucky’s workforce can continue to adapt as industries change,” Sayers said.

In its first phase, the KCTCS Flextrain AI learning pathway has engaged 93 companies and all 16 colleges and provided access to 14 AI course offerings, resulting in more than 489 enrollments across employers, colleges and workforce participants, helping ensure Kentucky’s workforce remains competitive, innovative and prepared for the future.

“I am incredibly proud of the impact KCTCS Workforce Solutions continues to make and grateful for the partnerships that drive success. Together, we are creating pathways to prosperity for our students, strengthening our communities, and building a brighter future for Kentucky,” Quarles said.