CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Hamilton County Schools, UTC, Volkswagen Group of America, and the Hamilton County Mayor’s Office announced a multimillion-dollar partnership to support the upcoming Franklin-Roberts Future Ready Center, set to open in the 2026–2027 school year.

The investment will fund the Volkswagen Engineering Preparatory Program, a new initiative designed to introduce students to engineering concepts and technical skills starting in their freshman year of high school.

“This is exactly the type of intentional opportunity we want for our students,” said HCS Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson. “It gives them access to real-world learning and career connections.”

Henning Habicht, Volkswagen’s Head of Chattanooga Operations, called the program a “bold step” that shows what’s

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