DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Dothan Technology Center has been awarded a $94,467 Innovation and Modernization Grant to strengthen its Career Technical Education programs, according to a release from Dothan City Schools.
The FY26 CTE grant award, announced Dec. 4, came from the Alabama Department of Education and will fund major equipment upgrades across several high-demand programs at Dothan Tech.
School officials say the grant, which was applied for in September, is designed to expand hands-on learning opportunities by providing state-of-the-art equipment for students in seven different programs.
Among the planned purchases is a forklift that will support Automotive, Aviation, Agriscience, Construction, HVAC, Engineering and Welding programs. The equipment will give students access to industry-standard tools used for real-world tasks such as loading, lifting and construction projects.
The Automotive Technology program will also receive a vehicle lift, brake lathe and tire changer machine. Officials say the upgrades will allow students to practice advanced automotive repair and servicing skills that align directly with workforce needs.
The Culinary Arts program will benefit from a new industrial dishwasher and multi-bin sinks, aimed at improving efficiency, sanitation and health-code compliance in the student-run commercial kitchen.
The equipment upgrades are expected to be implemented in the coming months and are anticipated to further enhance Dothan Tech’s CTE offerings while expanding opportunities for students to earn industry-level skills and certifications.
“DCS thanks the Alabama State Department of Education Office of CTE and Workforce Development for recognizing the importance these additions will add to our programs and skills training our students will receive. Offering students high-quality, hands-on opportunities with industry-standard equipment will better prepare them for the workforce.”