UA-Pulaski Technical College to build workforce training center at LR Port

The University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College announced plans to build a state-of-the-art workforce training center at the Port of Little Rock Authority in partnership with the port and the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Funding comes from $20 million secured by U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., in a recently approved appropriations bill.

The center will be designed to expand skilled talent pipelines and support the growing manufacturing and logistics industries in central Arkansas.

“This investment will equip the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College with the resources needed to train the next generation of Arkansans to step into skilled careers and support the success of existing companies at the Port of Little Rock,” said Boozman. “I was proud to champion funding for a modern workforce training venue to help workers gain in-demand skills, ensure Arkansans have access to good-paying jobs, and support growth and expansion opportunities that will greatly benefit our economy.”

UA-PTC will construct the state-of-the-art workforce training venue adjacent to the Little Rock Port Authority offices and the facility is designed to be expandable.

The flexible, reconfigurable facility will include modern training space, equipment for workforce instruction, high-voltage lineman training areas, parking, and a connecting plaza. The Little Rock Port Authority is providing the land for the project.

“Arkansas’ economy is growing fast, and the University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College will help ensure that we have the workforce to keep up with the growth,” said Gov. Sarah Sanders. “In the Natural State, our people are our greatest asset, and that’s why investing in Arkansas’ workforce has been a priority of my administration from the start. I am incredibly grateful to Senator Boozman for sharing that commitment and actively fighting to create opportunities for Arkansans in Washington D.C.”

“For decades, UA – Pulaski Tech has served the dual purpose of lifting Arkansans up by providing training and education relevant to the local workforce, while strengthening the industries and businesses that are the foundation of economic vitality in the state,” said UA-PTC Chancellor Summer DeProw. “This facility represents a quantum leap in our ability to deliver this service. We are profoundly grateful to Senator Boozman, The Little Rock Regional Chamber, The Port Authority, and all our partners, including Gov. Sanders, for placing their faith and trust in UA –Pulaski Tech.”

Approximately 11,000 workers from 48 Arkansas counties commute to the Port of Little Rock for jobs that average about $2,000 more per month than other regional employment opportunities.

“By partnering with UA – Pulaski Tech, the Port Authority helps ensure that our residents have the specialized skills and credentials required to excel in these life-sustaining careers,” said Bryan Day, director of the Little Rock Port Authority. “This center is not just an investment in a building. It is an investment in the people of Arkansas and the long-term competitive strength of our region.”