The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) said Tuesday its enrolment for the fall semester is 2.8% higher over the same time last year.

The number includes students enrolled in its Kentucky Coal Academy as well as another KCTCS program, the North American Racing Academy.

College system public relations representative Linda Lyon told International Longwall News the announcement is a direct reflection of the recently established program’s success.

“We have just graduated the second cohort of new miners [and] we presently have enrolled five classes of miners in the academy. This program has been highly successful,” Lyon said.

And interest, as seen in the increased student population, is not wavering. “Three more [classes] are presently in training and we are enrolling for the next class, which should start later this month,” Lyon added.

The Kentucky Coal Academy, which commenced instruction at the Hager Hill campus of Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) in Paintsville this year, has also proven successful through the rapid hiring of its graduates by the region’s operators.

“[They] have been employed by coal companies in our area at a pay rate of approximately $US48,000 annually. We have been extremely pleased with the academy and the success of our graduates,” Lyon said.

The program’s future, Coal Careers director Machelle Holbrook said earlier this year, is bright because everyone at BSCTC is working hard to ensure the training is cutting-edge and prepares students for the work ahead.

“We are constantly monitoring the progress and impact of this program. Some modifications have occurred which prove to be in the best interest of students and provide the coal industry with very talented employees,” Holbrook said.

Lyon concurred: “It’s a great opportunity for a career that offers good pay and a future.”