An Overview - click here for our brochure

                  

What is an ATC?

Advanced Technology Centers (ATCs) are located in all regions of the United States and are normally associated with community colleges and universities. Some private corporations and school districts also have established ATCs. An ATC is a commitment of persons and resources in the effort to reach, enhance and add value to business. An ATC is not necessarily a physical facility, but is often thought of and referred to as a structure. Beyond bricks and mortar, and ATC operation is a conscious effort to bring together the resources of the college in business and industry outreach, and it can be an organizational model that encompasses many functions of the college. While there is no single definition, an ATC can be described as a locus of economic development with substantial and concerted business and industry outreach products and services.

Meeting the Training Needs of Business and Industry

All ATCs share a commitment to serving the training needs of business, industry and individuals within their geographic service areas. Through partnerships, many provide services to other regions, states and nations. Typical products and services of ATCs include:

ATCs play a proactive role in economic development within their service regions and exhibit an entrepreneurial spirit that embraces change and evolution. All possess a commitment to providing training that reflects the state-of-the-art and display a willingness to partner with both public and private entities to leverage and enhance their resources. Because of their flexibility and adaptibility, ATCs are leaders in technical education program offerings that meet the ever-changing needs of today's workforce.

A Network of Advanced Technology Expertise

Beginning with twelve charter members in 1988, NCATC has over 170 member institutions, ranging from colleges, universities and schools to the corporate community, throughout the United States and Canada. NCATC represents a network of higher education resources that advocates and promotes the use of technology applications that enhance economic and workforce development programs and services.

Teaming with Business, Industry and Government to Leverage Resources

To optimize the use of their resources, NCATC member institutions partner with major corporations for the delivery of training and certifications. Through these partnerships, NCATC member colleges offer a wide spectrum of training and certifications. A sampling of training programs offered among members includes: