09/10/2025
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The Kingsport-based Tennessee Instrumentation Co. has donated $75,000 of specialized instrumentation equipment to Northeast State Community College, enhancing hands-on learning for advanced manufacturing students.
Company owner Michael Price recently made the donation to representatives of the College’s Foundation and the Regional Center for Advanced Manufacturing (RCAM).
Price said the company was founded in 1946 by Charles Palmer and later passed on to his son, Eddie Palmer. The company has a long history of supplying valves and control equipment, primarily to the Eastman Chemical Company.
Price’s father, Kenneth, acquired the company in the early 2000s. After his father’s death in October 2023, Price took over as owner.
Price, also a community planner for the City of Kingsport, said he recently transitioned the company to a home-based operation, focusing on direct manufacturer-to-end-user sales. He no longer needed the equipment for display and demonstration purposes, so he decided to donate it to RCAM.
“We’re fortunate to have the opportunity to support educational programs with this donation,” Price said. “By providing these resources, we’re ensuring that students have access to practical, hands-on equipment typically only available in industrial settings.”
Pictured left to right are Michael Price, Megan Almaroad, and Blake Montgomery.
Pictured left to right are Michael Price, Megan Davidson, and Blake Montgomery.
The college’s Regional Center for Advanced Manufacturing (RCAM) in downtown Kingsport will use the equipment in its associate degree programs in General, Electrical, Machine Tool, and Welding/Fabrication technologies.
“We much appreciate Mr. Price’s generosity,” said Megan Davidson, the College’s director of Development. “It’s a wonderful way to support the college’s educational efforts and honor the legacy of such a long-standing Kingsport business.”
The donated equipment includes radar level detectors, flow meters, and other specialized instruments that help regulate and automate manufacturing processes. Price said the equipment will help students learn about modern instrumentation and control technologies, preparing them for future careers in the industry.
“We are extremely grateful for this gift,” said Blake Montgomery, the College’s executive director for Workforce and Economic Development. “The equipment is in perfect condition and will be a great resource for our programs.”
Reflecting on the company’s history, Price expressed pride in continuing the family tradition of community support.
“It’s great to be able to give back to Kingsport, the community that has supported us for so many years,” Price said. “This donation not only honors the legacy of Charles Palmer and my father but also helps to foster the next generation of industry professionals right here in our hometown.”
Pictured left to right are Michael Price, Megan Davidson, and Blake Montgomery.
