8 more schools get Volkswagen eLabs

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – Eight more Hamilton County schools will get Volkswagen eLabs next year.

The Public Education Foundation announced the next schools this morning.

They at Brainerd High, Brown Middle, Center for Creative Arts, Hixson Middle, Hixson High, Ooltewah Middle, Orchard Knob Middle and Soddy Daisy Middle.

The eLabs give students hands on experience with digital fabrication tools, including automated manufacturing equipment, programmable microcomputers, renewable energy kits, 3D printers, robotics, laser cutters, and other emergent technologies.

They are paid for from a $1 million donation by Volkswagen Chattanooga and the State of Tennessee.

This is the second round of schools in Volkswagen’s commitment to put the eLabs in 16 Hamilton County.

“The results of the Volkswagen eLabs have been inspiring. I look forward to seeing the additional eight labs operating and cultivating an atmosphere of learning and exploration,” said Nicole Koesling, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Volkswagen Chattanooga. “At Volkswagen, we are dedicated to the principles of education and training, and the eLabs are certainly a major piece of this, enhancing the quality of education available to young people throughout our community.”