Support UT CIS

The potential to strengthen businesses and communities inspires our team of experts daily as we work to help manufacturers accelerate performance excellence, establish safe and healthy workplaces, and successfully transition to new and innovative manufacturing practices.

The Tennessee General Assembly established UT CIS in 1963. Since then, we have grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of manufacturers while staying true to our roots as one of the first few industry extension agencies in the country.  Along the way, we have depended on our friends, customers, and partners - people like you - who have encouraged, guided, and supported our work.

Here’s how you can help.

First, learn more about UT CIS, our capabilities, and how we assist manufacturers. Even if you’ve worked with us in the past, we’re developing and improving our services every day. Go to our website at cis.tennessee.edu, follow us on social media, or simply send me an email, call, or text. I would love to talk with you about what we’re working on.

Second, share our story and help us connect with more companies. Although we’ve been around for 58 years, there are still manufacturers who could benefit from our work but haven’t heard of us. We continue to strengthen our marketing and outreach, but the best messengers have always been the people who know us - our friends, customers, and partners.

Third, participate in UT CIS customer and partner events that help us stay attuned to manufacturer challenges, opportunities, and needs.  This could include volunteering to participate on a 30 minute virtual focus group, responding to a short survey, or piloting a new service line.  Your participation will help UT CIS continually improve so our customers can improve.

Fourth, support our Future Leaders in Manufacturing Fund.  Your gift will support student experiences in manufacturing, including capstone projects, internships, and training programs.  We continue to increase the number of student experiences each year while advocating manufacturing careers and developing future leaders. 

Learn About UT CIS  |  Share Our Story  |  Participate in an Event  |  Support Future Manufacturing Leaders