CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - History was made at Austin Peay State University on Friday. For the first time, students were able to graduate from the school with an Associates of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering Technology degree.
The program was started from scratch after the university partnered with Hemlock Semiconductor, which is currently under construction. The degree will allow graduates to take part in a growing industry.
Mark Remini and Kevin Johnson thought this would be a great opportunity for them to invest in what is becoming a growing industry.
"The printing industry is shrinking and when Hemlock Semiconductor made their announcement, I felt like that would be a great opportunity for me because I do believe solar is the way of the future," said Johnson.
"I jumped on the train and thought this was a great opportunity to transition into a new and growing field," Remini added.
They are both new graduates and already some of the newest employees of Hemlock Semiconductor.
They both are in training now, but they will soon join some of the expected 500 employees of the solar company.
"I do believe solar is the way of the future, so I believe it's going to give me a secure future for me and my family," Johnson added.
Hemlock semiconductor will sit on 500 acres, with the first building opening this summer. The entire facility is expected to open by fall 2012.
More than 1,600 construction workers are currently on site.
Hemlock is currently hiring employees for a range of positions at the company. If you are interested, you can apply at their website.
