January EDC Newsletter - UK receives Carnegie Community Engagement Classification

UK EDC News | January 2026

Talent Update

UK launches 4 transfer pathways to strengthen Kentucky’s manufacturing workforce

The Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering at the University of Kentucky is expanding opportunities for students across the Commonwealth by launching four new transfer pathways from the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) into its Lean Systems Engineering Technology (LST) bachelor’s degree program.

The pathways — designed in collaboration with KCTCS — create clear, streamlined paths for students who complete an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree to continue their education at UK.

This effort builds on the 2021 launch of the Fujio Cho Department of Engineering Technology, made possible through a $2.25 million gift from Toyota.

Innovation Update

Gatton College Advances Human-Centered Approach to Artificial Intelligence in Business Education

The Gatton College of Business and Economics is taking a proactive, people-first approach to artificial intelligence, integrating AI across teaching, research and operations to prepare students, faculty and staff for a rapidly changing business landscape.

Rather than treating AI as a niche topic or future concern, Gatton has embraced it as a present-day tool to amplify human talent.

This philosophy aligns with the University of Kentucky’s broader UK ADVANCE initiative, while allowing Gatton to tailor AI adoption to the realities of business education. The result is a coordinated, college-wide strategy that emphasizes practical application, ethical use and workforce readiness.

Economic Engagement Update

UK HealthCare highlights 18 months of UK St. Claire integration, expanding care and workforce

After more than six decades of collaboration and 18 months as part of UK HealthCare, UK St. Claire’s integration into the University of Kentucky health system continues to expand access to care, strengthen the health care workforce and help families across eastern Kentucky receive high-quality care close to home.

Over the past three years — which includes significant growth during the last 18 months — UK St. Claire has recruited 43 physicians and added nine specialty service lines, increasing access to high-demand care across its eight-county primary market. New services include endocrinology, infectious disease, nephrology, neurology, orthopaedic spine surgery, plastic and hand surgery, and vascular surgery.

Place Update

UK selected for 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification

The University of Kentucky has been selected as one of the institutions nationwide to receive the 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, a prestigious elective designation that recognizes colleges and universities demonstrating deep, sustained commitment to community engagement.

The classification, awarded by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education, highlights institutions that meaningfully collaborate with community partners to address public needs, enhance student learning and generate positive social impact. UK’s selection reflects its longstanding partnerships across the Commonwealth that connect teaching, research and service to advance Kentucky’s communities.

Partnership Update

UK, DOE evaluating seismic hazards at Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant

The University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER), Kentucky Research Consortium for Energy and Environment and UK College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences are collaborating with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to characterize past seismic activity and evaluate future seismic hazard at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant (PGDP).

The Seismic Characterization Project (SCP) is crucial to the future of nuclear energy redevelopment at the PGDP. UK’s SCP partners include world-class subject matter experts from Collier Geophysics, Lettis Consultants International, Kentucky Geological Survey, Explor®, STRYDE, GeoTomo, Chase-Cascade Drilling and Tricord Inc.

What We’re Reading, Watching & Listening To

A monthly peek into the media inspiring EDC members — and how it’s shaping their work.

The Morning Show

Type: TV show, Apple TV

Shared by: Marilyn Clark, Economic Engagement Manager

Summary/How it has shaped Marilyn's work:

The Morning Show isn’t a series that screams virtue or educational value—at least not at first glance. It’s a drama built around an ensemble of characters working at a fictional television network, struggling to survive in a fiercely competitive, ever-changing market where the rules seem to shift daily. The show is packed with twists, betrayals, and high-stakes decisions.

Watching it takes me back to my early years in the industry right after college. Those experiences—and the lessons they taught me—still shape how I approach work today. Here are a few that stand out:

Change is constant. Work moves fast, and nothing is permanent. Never get too comfortable or complacent. Embrace change—or risk being left behind.
Emotional intelligence matters. You’ll meet people whose personalities and values feel worlds apart from yours. Find common ground. Learn what it means to walk in someone else’s shoes. Be trustworthy, trust builds relationships.
Stay observant and strategic. Know your competition, but most importantly, know yourself.
Teamwork is essential. In times of chaos, even an imperfect plan can move you forward if you work together.

Final Takeaway:

Technology is transforming economic development. Innovations like AI, automation, and digital transformation are disrupting industries and demanding a new kind of workforce. The University of Kentucky is uniquely positioned to collaborate with K–12 schools and industry leaders to equip Kentuckians with human, durable, and technological skills for future careers. We need flexible, adaptable, creative lifelong learners—from cradle to grave.

Central Kentucky Job Club:

Creating Your Career Compass - Planning for the Unknowns in Your Career Journey

February 10, 2026 - 9:00 AM

Presented by Pat Fligge, Career Coach, PRF Coaching

Career coach Pat Fligge loves helping people navigate the complex world of career exploration and job searching, while minimizing the typical burnout and frustration of the process. Pat’s goal is to guide clients through their job search with a positive mindset.

EDC Communication

The news featured here does not exclusively represent the work of the EDC, but rather highlights the contributions of various collaborators. We are honored to showcase the remarkable achievements taking place across the University of Kentucky.

The EDC Mission:

To proactively grow economic

prosperity in the Commonwealth by focusing on the areas of Talent, Innovation, Place, Partnership, and Economic Engagement.