New Partnership Forms the Volunteer State OSHA Training Institute Education Center

The University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services (UT CIS) is proud to announce a new partnership with Volunteer State Community College (Vol State) to establish the Volunteer State OTI Ed Center. This collaboration is set to bring increased access to high-quality Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training across Tennessee and the Southeast region.

UT CIS has previously collaborated with NC State University to deliver training and consulting services as the Southeastern OTI Ed Center. Creating the Volunteer State OTI Ed Center is a joint decision with the federal OSHA program to continue delivering the same high-quality services with more regional alignment.

The Volunteer State OSHA Training Institute Education Center (OTI Ed Center) will serve as a resource hub for businesses, industries, and workers in the region, offering comprehensive safety training and education. With both institutions bringing decades of experience in workforce development and occupational safety, this partnership will meet the growing demand for a safer and more productive work environment across a variety of industries.

 The collaboration between UT CIS and Vol State represents a commitment to enhancing workplace safety through education, training, and certification. By leveraging the expertise of both institutions, the Volunteer State OTI Ed Center will offer OSHA-authorized courses that meet the needs of today’s workforce. These courses will cover a wide range of topics including construction safety, general industry safety, and specific safety concerns in areas like hazardous materials, fall protection, and electrical safety. 

As part of the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service, UT CIS has long been a leader in providing expert training and consultation to Tennessee businesses. By adding Vol State's community-focused resources and campus facilities, the new OSHA training center will be able to expand its reach, providing accessible training to workers throughout Tennessee and beyond.

This partnership will create a strong platform for employers and employees to improve their knowledge of OSHA regulations, fostering a safer workplace and enhancing productivity.

The Volunteer State OTI Ed Center is expected to be a vital resource for the community, offering both in-person and online training opportunities. Classes will be available to individuals from a range of sectors, from manufacturing to healthcare, construction, and beyond. The center will also host outreach programs aimed at raising awareness about workplace safety and helping businesses comply with OSHA standards.

For more information about this new partnership or to request a course, please contact Dustin Housewright at dustin.housewright@tennessee.edu.