Southern Arkansas University Tech in Camden will receive a $150,000 U.S. Department of Education grant to create an aerospace manufacturing pre-employment training program.
The program is intended for high school graduates, as well as the unemployed or underemployed who are looking for jobs in the aerospace manufacturing sector.
SAU Tech will use its funds to develop its aerospace manufacturing curriculum, hire instructors, recruit workers, and purchase supplies and equipment. The program will last one semester and will train a total of approximately 45 workers during fall, spring and summer sessions starting this fall.
The program will be geared toward entry-level manufacturing jobs at Camden's Highland Industrial Park, which is home to employers such as Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Aerojet, General Dynamics and Armtec. Camden employers expect to hire 280 workers each year over the next three years and will waive previous employment requirements for those who have completed SAU Tech's aerospace manufacturing program.
"This funding will open the door to jobs for many people," said Bill Archer, SAU Tech Aviation Program Coordinator/Technology Division Chair. "SAU Tech is working closely with industries in our Highland Industrial Park in development of the critical areas of training needed by those seeking employment in these high-tech, high-paying positions. I'm very pleased that we will be offering yet another avenue for our students to be successful."