Congressman Robert Aderholt announced that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has approved a grant of $264,432 for the Blount County Education Foundation. The funding aims to enhance science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) training programs for students in Blount County.
The project will expand hands-on STEAM learning opportunities for over 2,200 students. The total investment amounts to $903,003, which includes $638,571 from local sources in addition to the federal contribution from ARC.
“I am proud that Congress continues to support the Appalachian Regional Commission and the important work it does in communities like Blount County,” said Congressman Aderholt. “This investment will help ensure our students have access to the technology, equipment, and training necessary to compete in today’s economy and pursue high-demand careers right here in Alabama.”
ARC is a federally authorized economic development agency funded by Congress. It invests in projects that aim to expand opportunity and strengthen communities across Appalachia. This recent award highlights ongoing federal backing for workforce development and education initiatives within Alabama’s Fourth District.
According to ARC, the grant will be used for upgrading technology, equipment, and educational resources so that all students can access quality hands-on STEAM experiences. The initiative involves collaboration with the Blount County Board of Education and will include both school-year and summer STEAM sessions as well as professional development for teachers working in STEAM labs.
Congressman Aderholt emphasized the importance of education and workforce readiness for Alabama’s economic future. “Alabama continues to lead in industries such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace engineering, and cybersecurity,” Aderholt added. “By investing in STEAM education now, we are preparing the next generation of workers to fill these important roles and continue our state’s economic success.”
Robert Aderholt has represented Alabama’s 4th district in Congress since 1997 after succeeding Tom Bevill. Before his tenure in Congress, he served in the Alabama House of Representatives. Born in Haleyville, Alabama in 1965, Aderholt graduated from Birmingham–Southern College with a BA before earning his JD from Samford University.
The Appalachian Regional Commission serves 423 counties across 13 states within Appalachia with a mission focused on building community capacity and supporting long-term economic growth.
