JACKSON, Miss. – May 11, 2026 – Responding to growing demand in Mississippi’s automotive sector, Meridian Community College is launching a new automotive technology program made possible through support from AccelerateMS.
Students will receive hands-on training in core automotive systems and emerging technologies. Instruction meets Automotive Service Excellence standards and emphasizes safety, employability skills, and work-based learning to prepare graduates for successful careers.
The investment supports a new two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology developed in response to regional employer needs. The program offers flexible one-year and two-year exit points, allowing students to enter the workforce or continue toward advanced credentials. Once fully scaled, the program will add up to 15 new student seats per year, resulting in up to 30 additional seats.
With a combination of state and federal investments, the college is expanding training capacity and equipping students with the tools and technology needed for hands-on, high-quality instruction. MCC was awarded more than $300,000 from AccelerateMS specifically to fully outfit its automotive labs with essential, up-to-date instructional equipment.
“This program opens doors for a wide range of Mississippians, from recent high school graduates to adult learners and incumbent workers looking to advance their careers,” said Shelika Hooker, director of investments and initiatives at AccelerateMS. “By aligning training with employer needs, Meridian Community College is helping build a stronger workforce and support long-term economic growth in the region.”
“This project reflects the power of strategic investment in education,” said Dr. Lori Smith, dean for workforce education at MCC. “Expanding automotive technology training at Meridian Community College helps align education with workforce demand and creates long-term value for our students, employers, and communities.”
The expansion increases training capacity, and by offering a full associate degree pathway, MCC is strengthening the local talent pipeline and helping meet employer demand. Graduates will be prepared for employment as automotive maintenance and service technicians, with opportunities to advance into specialized repair, diagnostics, and supervisory roles within the automotive and transportation industries.
“I can’t wait to see program graduates securing employment in our community and making a difference for their families,” said Dr. Tom Huebner, MCC president. “We are truly thankful for AccelerateMS’s strategic investment in our region.”
About AccelerateMS
AccelerateMS supports the people and businesses of Mississippi by creating and implementing workforce strategies that link individuals to transformative, high-paying careers. Through strong partnerships and effective grants management, the organization promotes sustained individual, community, and statewide economic growth.
