Welcome to the Tennessee College of Applied Technology Memphis!
As President, I am honored to lead an institution that has served as a cornerstone of workforce development and technical education in Memphis and Shelby County since 1963.
At TCAT Memphis, we believe technical education changes lives, strengthens communities and creates pathways to meaningful careers. Through our downtown main campus, the Aviation Extension Campus at Memphis International Airport, and the Bartlett campus, we remain committed to providing accessible, high-quality training opportunities that prepare students for success in today’s workforce.
Our programs are designed to provide hands-on training, industry-aligned training and personalized support across a wide range of high-demand career fields, including aviation, automotive technology, welding, healthcare, advanced manufacturing and skilled trades. We continue to expand academic offerings and workforce partnerships to ensure our students are equipped with the skills employers need both now and in the future. As the first female President of TCAT Memphis, I am especially proud of the college’s growth through strategic partnerships with local and national industries, expanded workforce opportunities and strengthened dual enrollment pathways for secondary students across our region.
Thank you for choosing TCAT Memphis as your partner in education and career development. We look forward to supporting your journey and celebrating your success as you build a brighter future for yourself, your family and our community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gwen Sutton
President
Dr. Gwen Sutton serves as President of TCAT Memphis, becoming the first female to lead the institution in its history. Since her appointment in May 2023, she has led significant institutional growth initiatives focused on workforce development, industry partnerships, program expansion and student success across the college’s three campuses.
Dr. Sutton holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University, having previously earned a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership and Professional Practice in 2022, followed by completion of the university's doctoral bridge program. Her dissertation research focused on the underrepresentation of African American females in leadership roles within higher education. She also holds a Master of Business Administration in Human Resource Management from Bethel University, a Bachelor of Science degree from Mississippi State University, and a Computer Information Systems diploma from TCAT Covington.
With nearly three decades of experience in higher education, Dr. Sutton began her career in financial aid administration before serving in multiple leadership roles within the Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology system, including financial aid coordinator, student services coordinator, compliance and curriculum coordinator, vice president, and, most recently, president of TCAT Memphis.
In addition to her institutional leadership role, Dr. Sutton serves as Chair of the Council on Occupational Education (COE) Commission, becoming the first African American female to hold the position. She remains actively engaged in workforce and community initiatives at the local, state, and national levels and is committed to expanding access to high-quality technical education and workforce opportunities for students across Tennessee.