In check: TCAT Shelbyville Machine Tool students create commemorative chess set

TCAT Shelbyville's Machine Tool Technology program was one of the first programs created when the school first opened its doors in 1964. This program now calls a state-of-the-art lab on the college's new campus home.

As part of a recent celebration of becoming the first technical college to host a TBR Board Meeting, President Jimmy Wright and his staff wanted to make last week's experience on the brand-new campus memorable for Chancellor Flora W. Tydings and Vice Chair Emily Reynolds.

Wright enlisted the help of Machine Tool Technology Instructor Kenny Keith and students Alex Ward, Nathan Parker, Alyssa McFerrin, Nekoda Gallman and Austin Vincent to design and machine a pair of chess sets that were presented to the chancellor and vice chair on the final day of the meeting.

Keith and his students used a previously designed set, created on manual machines some 20 years ago, as inspiration for the gifts. The process of designing and creating the sets took a few months, but their hard work was well worth it. The finished product illustrates the intricacies and creativity that went into the sets, as well as the advancements in technology within the industry and this shop.

The students used Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) software, as well as Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines to produce this remarkable and incredibly detailed version. Keith says he's amazed and inspired by his students' creativity and their willingness to push themselves outside of their comfort zones to create a modern design like this version.