HCTC celebrates TJ Maxx grand opening in Hazard

Leaders from Hazard Community & Technical College (HCTC) Workforce Solutions joined local officials, business leaders and community members on Sunday morning to celebrate the grand opening of TJ Maxx at Black Gold Plaza in Hazard.

Before the store’s opening, college leaders partnered with TJ Maxx to support hiring efforts for the new location. The college hosted a multi-day job fair on HCTC’s Technical Campus, helping connect local residents with employment opportunities at the retailer’s newest Hazard location.

"It wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Dr. Keila Miller and the entire Workforce team," said Hazard Store Manager Tabitha Little for The TJX Companies, Inc., TJ Maxx's parent corporation. 

The new retailer is expected to create approximately 80 jobs and represents the first of four new retail stores planned as part of the redevelopment of Black Gold Plaza.

“Progress is happening in Hazard, and we are proud to support businesses and workforce growth in southeastern Kentucky,” said Dr. Keila Miller, chief workforce officer at HCTC. “I was honored to hold the ribbon during the event. It takes many partners to bring in businesses … although you don’t see the work behind hanging the big store sign, don’t doubt it kept some folks up at night.”

Through Workforce Solutions, HCTC works with employers across the region to provide customized workforce training, hiring support and employee development services. The division also assists businesses in identifying potential training funding opportunities through programs such as Kentucky Community & Technical College System TRAINS funding and workforce partnerships.

Dr. Jennifer Lindon, HCTC president & chief executive officer, said the college remains committed to supporting community and economic development efforts throughout the region.

“At HCTC, we understand that economic development is ultimately about people. We know firsthand the impact that opportunities can have on individuals and families in southeastern Kentucky,” Dr. Lindon said. “Every new position created through projects like this represents a chance to strengthen our workforce, support local families and help move our region forward."

For more information about ways HCTC supports economic and workforce development efforts, visit the Workforce Solutions webpage.

Founded in 1968, Hazard Community & Technical College is the region’s leading provider of public higher education and the only public college headquartered within its seven-county service area. Through campuses, centers and community partnerships across Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Owsley, Perry and Wolfe counties, HCTC delivers accessible, high-quality educational opportunities close to home for learners at every stage of life.

The legacy of HCTC’s historic Lees College Campus in Jackson dates to 1893. The college’s HWY 15 Campus serves as a beacon of healthcare education in the region, preparing the next generation of nurses, allied health professionals and caregivers. Its Technical Campus provides hands-on workforce and technical training opportunities that support regional industry needs, while the Leslie County Center is home to the Kentucky School of Bluegrass and Traditional Music, which preserves and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Appalachia.

In addition to academic transfer programs and workforce development initiatives, HCTC offers numerous scholarship opportunities, dual credit options for high school students and flexible pathways for learners of all ages. The college is also committed to supporting students in recovery and creating opportunities for individuals seeking a fresh start through education, career training and community connection.

Together, HCTC’s campuses and programs reflect a long-standing commitment to educational access, workforce advancement, cultural preservation and student success throughout rural southeastern Kentucky.

For more information about HCTC, visit hazard.kctcs.edu.