WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and Blanche Lincoln, along with U.S. Representative Marion Berry (AR-01) and Governor Mike Beebe, today announced the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services will receive $1,350,655 from the Department of Labor to help residents in Cross, Crittenden, St. Francis, Lee, and Phillips Counties enter the high-growth transportation industry. 

 

The delegation said that in addition to allowing workers earn their Commercial Drivers License (CDL) credentials, funding will allow participants to obtain specific certifications, such as Heavy Truck Diesel Maintenance or an Associates Degree in Applied Science and General Technology. 

 

"This grant will have a positive impact in the Delta region.  The trucking industry is in particular need of skilled and professional drivers," said Pryor.  "The state of the art training facility at Mid-South Community College will provide optimal instruction for Arkansans pursuing greater expertise in this growing industry."

 

"A well-trained work force is essential to the growth and success of our communities," said Lincoln.  "The Arkansas Delta region will need the continued support of federal dollars such as these to boost local economies and give workers the skills they need to provide for themselves and their families."

 

“A skilled workforce will attract new businesses and encourage badly needed economic growth in the region,” said Berry.  “Investing in education is always worthwhile and I look forward to seeing the benefits of this program for years to come.”    

 

"Education and economic development go hand-in-hand.  Today’s announcement will provide $1.3 million in new opportunities for Arkansans to learn new skills, earn professional certifications and get better-paying jobs.  Senators Pryor and Lincoln and Congressman Berry should be commended for their work to make this possible.  Now, we go about the business of moving our state forward and providing greater opportunity for better paying jobs for our people in East Arkansas," said Beebe.

 

Mid-South Community College will play a critical role in implementation of this grant.  The recently opened Workforce Technology Center is a 38,000 square foot facility and adds more high-tech multimedia classrooms, computer upgrade and repair stations, automotive/manufacturing training areas, and Diesel Maintenance Technology work spaces.  Upon learning of this award, Glen Fenter, President of Mid-South Community College said, “We’re very excited about the continued interested in the region as evidenced by this significant grant and certainly appreciate the Department of Labor and the Arkansas congressional delegation in having faith in our ability to use these resources wisely.”

 

Training partners include the Arkansas Workforce Investment Board, the Eastern Arkansas Workforce Investment Board, Mid-South Community College, Roadmasters Trucking and the Teamsters National Education and Training Fund.  In addition, the following employers will participate: Schneider National, Werner Enterprises, Covenant Transport, Yellow Roadway, P.A.M. Transport, Transam Trucking, U.S.A. Truck and ABF Freight System.

 

 

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