Thanks to funding from the state, the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) will now have more space for advanced manufacturing training along with another tractor-trailer for CDL certification.
According to a release from the college on Tuesday, UACCB has received $950,000 in Regional Workforce Grant Phase III funds from the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.
Two hundred thousand dollars will go to buying a second diesel truck and trailer for the Commercial Trucking Operator (CDL) program while $750,000 is dedicated to expanding space for advanced manufacturing.
“We are committed to meeting the needs of our regional workforce demands by investing in high-demand programs like advanced manufacturing and commercial truck driving,” said Dr. Brian Shonk, UACCB chancellor. “Through these programs, we are offering great opportunities for our students while supporting our local community and employers.”
UACCB received $525,000 in Regional Workforce Phase II grant funds last year, a portion of which helped restart the trucking program. The school said demand was so high that a second truck was needed.
UACCB has a variety of industrial technology programs, such as welding, mechatronics, and advanced manufacturing that continually develop.
“These regional workforce funds allow UACCB to stay ahead of trends and expand the types of training we can provide,” Dr. Holly Smith, vice chancellor of academics, said. “We can provide customized training for workforce partners and more short-term courses for people to add skills.”
Smith said students will benefit from state-of-the-art training and have great earning potential after participating in these programs.
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather every weekday morning and afternoon from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ. White River Now updates are also aired weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5.
