Aderholt Applauds Congressional ARC Funding Supporting STEAM Education in Blount County

WASHINGTON — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today announced that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), a federal-state partnership funded by Congress, has approved a $264,432 grant for the Blount County Education Foundation to strengthen STEAM training programs for students in Blount County.

This project will expand hands-on learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) for more than 2,200 students. In total, the initiative represents a $903,003 investment, including $638,571 in local funding support alongside ARC’s federal contribution.

“I am proud that Congress continues to support the Appalachian Regional Commission and the important work it does in communities like Blount County,” said Congressman Aderholt. “This investment will help ensure our students have access to the technology, equipment, and training necessary to compete in today’s economy and pursue high-demand careers right here in Alabama.”

As a federally authorized and congressionally funded economic development agency, ARC invests in projects that expand opportunity and strengthen communities across Appalachia. This latest award reflects continued federal support for workforce development and education initiatives in Alabama’s Fourth District.

According to ARC, the grant will fund upgrades to technology, equipment, and educational resources to ensure equitable access to high-quality, hands-on STEAM learning experiences. The initiative will be carried out in partnership with the Blount County Board of Education and will include in-school and summer STEAM training sessions, as well as ongoing professional development for STEAM lab teachers.

Congressman Aderholt emphasized that strengthening education and workforce readiness is critical to supporting Alabama’s economic growth.

“Alabama continues to lead in industries such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace engineering, and cybersecurity,” Aderholt added. “By investing in STEAM education now, we are preparing the next generation of workers to fill these important roles and continue our state’s economic success.”

The Appalachian Regional Commission serves 423 counties across 13 Appalachian states and works to build community capacity and promote long-term economic growth.

###