by: Emma Tanner- Daily Corinthian- July 10, 2026
The Alcorn Career & Technology Center has been awarded a grant to promote workforce development skills in high school students.
The vocational school was awarded the EquipMS Grant by AccelerateMS, totaling $91,200. AccelerateMS is an agency under the state of Mississippi that focuses on workforce training and employment opportunities in government, education and private sectors.
“The EquipMS grant is a tremendous investment in the future of our students,” said Alcorn School District superintendent Brandon Quinn. “We are grateful for John Anderson’s leadership and dedication in securing these funds, which will enhance our Industrial Maintenance and Engineering programs at the Alcorn Career and Technical Center. By strengthening these high-demand career pathways, we are ensuring our students graduate with the skills, experiences, and opportunities needed to excel in college, careers, and life.”
ACTC was chosen to receive the grant due to its expansion and modernization of its Industrial Maintenance and Engineering programs. The school has also increased enrollment from approximately 34 students to 44 students annually.
“We are extremely grateful to AccelerateMS for investing in the future of career and technical education in the Alcorn School District. This grant will provide our Industrial Maintenance and Engineering students with hands-on experience using collaborative robots – the same advanced technology found in today’s manufacturing and industrial workplaces,” said ACTC director John Anderson. “The equipment will also strengthen the alignment of our programs with postsecondary education, creating a seamless pathway for students to continue their education and earn the skills and credentials needed for high-demand careers. This investment equips our students with the knowledge, technical skills, and real-world experience they need to become the highly skilled workforce that will drive our region’s economy for years to come.”
ACTC was one of 25 high schools and school districts to receive the grant. Since 2024, the state has granted more than $4.2 million to 60 recipients statewide.
“When students can explore and prepare for careers in high school, they are better positioned for success after graduation,” said Dr. Courtney Taylor, executive director of AccelerateMS. “These grants help schools provide learning environments that reflect today’s workforce and connect students to opportunities in their communities.”
The grant program was established in 2023 through HB588 as the Mississippi K-12 Workforce Development Grant Program. The goal is to provide “targeted funding to modernize, replace, or otherwise enhance high school programs aligned with the state’s priority occupations and industry sectors.”