The Naifeh Center for Effective Leadership and Howard Baker School for Public Policy and Public Affairs hosted newly elected legislators at the biannual Legislative Leaders Academy. During the academy, legislators learned more about the Tennessee budget and working together across party lines, and they heard from former officeholders at the state and federal levels. UT President Randy Boyd also spoke to them. They spent three days in Knoxville for the academy at the Institute for Public Service offices and on the UT Knoxville campus at the Baker School.
Language Center Translates Brochure for Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Language Center translated the “Tennessee: The Perfect Place to Do Business” brochure into Japanese for the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. Japan is the leading source of foreign investment in Tennessee with a significant amount of capital invested by Japanese companies, particularly in the automotive industry, totaling nearly $20 billion and representing a large portion of the state’s total foreign direct investment. Having this promotional information available in Japanese allows for direct and culturally sensitive communication with potential Japanese investors, demonstrating respect for their language and business practices, which is crucial for building trust and credibility in the Japanese market.
CIS Receives Grant to Help Companies Adopt Advanced Technology
The Center for Industrial Service’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) received a $555,228 grant as part of a National Institute of Standards and Technology grant under the MEP Competitive Awards Program. This three-year project, in partnership with Rhode Island’s Polaris MEP and other regional centers, will focus on supporting small and medium-sized manufacturers in adopting advanced technologies such as advanced composites, lightweight materials and automation technologies.
