First Tennessee Development District

09/04/2026

Have a safe and happy weekend!

09/04/2026

08/28/2026

Ready to learn about another amaziong Caring Workplace Employer ocated in Piney Flats?
We are!!!

Do you know what Microporous produces in Piney Flats, TN?Caring Workplaces Staffa few seconds ago1 min readWe are proud to call them a Caring Workplaces employer!

08/28/2026

Where is the workforce headed? The 9th Annual Education to Employment (E2E) Summit brought educators, industry leaders, students, and community partners together at the historic Bristol Train Station to explore what’s next for our region.

From AI and nuclear economy to aviation and entrepreneurship, this year’s summit sparked conversations about emerging industries, career opportunities, and the partnerships needed to connect education with the workforce of tomorrow.

We’re also excited to see Leslie Thompson take the E2E torch from Lottie Ryans as we look ahead to the 10th Annual E2E Summit in 2027!

👉 Read the full recap: ftdd.org/news

08/27/2026

A $22.5 million investment in Mountain City’s future! 💙

The Town of Mountain City has been awarded $22.5 million in EDA Disaster Supplemental funding to rebuild and strengthen its wastewater infrastructure following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene.

FTDD was proud to assist the Town with its EDA grant application and help secure this historic investment. The funding will support a new flood and storm-resistant operations building, improvements to the wastewater treatment plant, and major rehabilitation of sewer lines, manholes and lift stations.

Beyond recovery, this project is an investment in economic development and future growth, providing the infrastructure Mountain City needs to support existing businesses and attract new industry.

Read the full story on our website: ftdd.org/news

08/26/2026

It’s the last Wednesday in August, which means it’s time for the Education to Employment Summit!

We’re gathered today at the historic Bristol Train Station, and lunch is being prepared by high school culinary programs from across the region. And honestly… doesn’t it look amazing?! 😍🍽️

Thanks to Science Hill, Elizabethton, Unicoi County, Cherokee, Volunteer, and Dobyns-Bennett High School culinary programs for this impressive and delicious spread!

08/24/2026

Thank you to another Caring Workplaces Employer! We couldn't contiue all of this work without all of the community support we receive.

They stand for change not charity.Their vision is an Appalachia where people are connected, resourced, and leading change in their own communities. We believe lasting progress grows from relationships, shared stories, and collective action. By supporting grassroots leaders and community-driven solut...

08/18/2026

Welcome Staffmark: Staffing & Recruiting to the Caring Workplaces team of employers!

Looking for a job or new career path? Staffmark, a Caring Workplaces employer can help!All Are Welcome!Workplaces flourish when diverse voices are not just heard but celebrated. As employment experts working with thousands of companies across the country, Staffmark feels a deep responsibility to bui...

08/18/2026

Join us on Thursday, August 20 for a FREE adult education resource dinner to hear from Kingsport-based education institutions about adult continuing education opportunities and resources!

Whether you're aiming to complete your degree, stepping out as a first-time college student, returning to higher education after military service or studying to earn your high school equivalency diploma, this free lunch will help you find the resources you need to keep going!
It’s never too late; Kingsport is brimming with opportunities!
Visit kingsportchamber.org/events to register for FREE today!

08/18/2026