In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a steering column assembly is provided. The steering column assembly comprises a steering column extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The steering column includes a lower portion extending from the second end, a middle portion connected to and axially moveable with respect to the lower portion, and an upper portion connected to and axially moveable with respect to the middle portion and extending towards the first end. A component is connected to the steering column adjacent to the lower portion and at least one axial actuator is connected between the component and the upper portion.