The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) Board of Regents heard updates Thursday reflecting strong momentum across the system, including approval of a new academic program, record-setting student success outcomes, continued enrollment growth, and major investments in workforce development and facilities.
The meeting highlighted KCTCS’s continued focus on aligning academic programs with workforce needs while helping more students succeed. Among the board’s key actions was approval of a proposed associate in applied science in Water Resource Technology at Bluegrass Community and Technical College. Developed in partnership with the Kentucky Rural Water Association, the program will help address workforce shortages in rural water and wastewater careers.
Board members also received updates on several initiatives designed to meet regional workforce demand, including nuclear energy workforce development in West Kentucky, new plumbing training in Hazard, technology credentials through the FAST Track Academy in Eastern Kentucky, and a collaborative paramedic training effort among Ashland, Hazard, and Big Sandy community and technical colleges.
KCTCS leaders reported strong growth and historic student outcomes across the system. This year, KCTCS expects to serve 120,000 credential-seeking students and another 70,000 members of the state workforce through customized training and upskilling. New enrollment is up 2.8%, dual credit enrollment has increased 11.5%, and adult learner enrollment has returned to pre-pandemic levels. At the same time, KCTCS posted a record graduation rate of 51.1%, a dramatic increase from the system’s first cohort of students in 2001 who had a 15% completion rate.
“Our student success results show what is possible when we stay focused on access, support and clear pathways to opportunity,” said Dr. Ryan Quarles, president of KCTCS. “As we look to the future, KCTCS will continue building a college system that is responsive to students, aligned with Kentucky’s workforce needs, and prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.”
The board also heard updates on efforts to improve transfer and expand opportunity for students across the Commonwealth. KCTCS recently reached a common course numbering agreement with Morehead State University, helping simplify transfer for students pursuing a four-year degree.
Additional updates reflected continued statewide investment in the system’s mission. The board received reports on major facility projects, including Ashland Community and Technical College’s Transportation Education Center, Jefferson Community and Technical College’s Center for Science and Discovery, and Owensboro Community and Technical College’s Innovation Center with HealthForce Kentucky. Members also heard about new employer and philanthropic support, including Humana’s $125,000 investment in nursing pathways and gifts supporting student parents and campus food pantries.
Board action items included:
• Approval of a proposed new associate in applied science in Water Resource Technology.
• Approval of a capital construction project for a maintenance building at the Fire Academy site in Greenville.
• Approval of the KCTCS 2026–2030 Strategic Plan.
The KCTCS Board of Regents will meet for its next meeting on June 11-12 in Hopkinsville.
Kentucky Community and Technical College System