EKU and Central Kentucky Technical College (CKTC) signed an agreement Friday, April 19, that will allow the transfer of CKTC credits toward a baccalaureate degree in industrial technology at Eastern.

The "2+2 Seamless Education Agreement" allows students in the machine tool, computer-aided drafting, electronics and industrial maintenance programs, after completing their associate degree in general occupational/technical studies at CKTC, to continue their education at EKU.

"This new partnership between Eastern Kentucky University and Central Kentucky Technical College will enhance educational opportunities for CKTC graduates by providing a direct, seamless pathway to a baccalaureate degree program," said EKU President Joanne Glasser. "This agreement is a perfect example of how educational institutions can work collaboratively to provide access to educational programs and address workforce needs."

Glasser and CKTC President Ron Baugh signed the agreement in a morning ceremony at the two-year Technical College in Lexington.

"Central Kentucky Technical College has a long, successful history of cooperation and partnership with Eastern Kentucky University," Baugh said. "Many of our faculty and leadership team members are alumni of this outstanding institution.

"This new 2+2 agreement represents many hours of work by faculty of both institutions," Baugh continued. "This first agreement addresses majors in manufacturing-related careers and is designed to provide graduates with the skills and attributes essential for this sector of our economy to grow and remain healthy. Students entering CKTC will have doors of opportunity open to them that did not exist prior to this agreement."

Dr. Ed Davis, chair of EKU's Department of Technology, said the two programs represent a perfect match.

"CKTC does an excellent job preparing students at the technician level and provides experience for students in technical subject areas," Davis noted. "They come here looking for a management background, and our baccalaureate degree program in industrial technology will prepare them for positions in mid- and upper-level management in business and industry."

According to Ted Lloyd, coordinator of EKU's baccalaureate industrial technology degree program, interest in such an agreement has been high among CKTC students, many of whom are working full-time and looking to move into industrial management.

"The students I've dealt with at CKTC are very dedicated and very sharp," Lloyd said. "We hope many will take advantage of this opportunity." The job market in industrial technology remains strong, Davis said. "Our graduates haven't had any problems finding jobs. Anyone who wants a job can find one," he said.