Skip to Main Content

SteelCore Donates PPE to SCC

September 25, 2020

Brandon Coates with PPE
Brandon Coates, president/CEO of SteelCore, and a 2011 SCC graduate, made the donation to honor SCC and the faculty, staff who meant so much to him during his time as an SCC student.

Article as it appears on UpstateBiz.com

The Spartanburg Community College Foundation recently accepted a $50,000 donation of personal protective equipment to the College from Spartanburg-based SteelCore Industrial and Welding Supply.

Brandon Coates, president/CEO of SteelCore, and a 2011 SCC graduate, made the donation to honor the College and the faculty, staff who meant so much to him during his time as an SCC student.

The donation included antibacterial wipes, disposable protective masks and liquid hand sanitizer, all which will be used to continue cleaning SCC classrooms and work spaces as well as keep students, faculty and staff safe during the pandemic.

SCC President Michael Mikota called the donation an example of the economic impact and return on investment Spartanburg Community College provides to the communities of Spartanburg, Union and Cherokee counties.

“We are so grateful to SteelCore because this helps us succeed in our mission to continue to educate students this fall semester,” Mikota said. “It also showcases the success of our alumni giving back to the Spartanburg Community College Foundation and the longstanding commitment that when you achieve success, you share that success with others.”

Founded in 2013 by Brandon Coates and his father, Wayne, SteelCore has grown into the largest single source supplier of metalworking tools, equipment and supplies in the Carolinas.

The Spark Center: Igniting Innovation and Economic Growth in South Carolina

SCC’s Spark Center drives innovation and economic growth, connecting education and industry to support business expansion, workforce training, and job creation across South Carolina.

Posted on March 4, 2026

The SCC Foundation: A Community That Gives Back

Since 1983, the SCC Foundation has provided scholarships, emergency aid, and program support—helping students overcome barriers, pursue their goals, and strengthening the community through donations.

Posted on March 4, 2026

Dual Enrollment: Building Futures Early

SCC’s Dual Enrollment program lets high school students earn college credit while completing their diplomas, saving time and money while building confidence and preparing for college & career success.

Posted on March 4, 2026

Chat Button Chat Button