Workforce & Economic Development

workforce & economic development

a message from the vice chancellor of workforce & economic development

 

At Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus, we believe workforce and economic development begins Ryan Mikleswith strong relations -- with students, employers, community partners, and the industries that drive our region forward. Our goal is to connect people with the skills, training, and opportunities they need to succeed while helping businesses build a stronger, more capable workforce. 

The Workforce and Economic Development division works directly with business and industry to identify workforce needs and develop solutions that are responsive, practical, and customized. Through professional skills training, customized training, microcredentials, certifications, and other non-credit opportunities, we provide individuals with the opportunity to gain new skills, advance in their careers, and become more valuable in the workplace. 

We also recognize that workforce development is closely connected to the work taking place in our classrooms. Our faculty and staff are subject-matter experts who understand the skills students need to succeed, and our role is to build partnerships that bring those opportunities to our campus and community. Whether an employer needs specialized technical training, leadership development, or a customized solution to address a specific workforce challenge, we are committed to being a responsive partner. 

Our work extends beyond training individuals. We are focused on strengthening the workforce pipeline, supporting employers, expanding opportunities for our communities, and positioning ATU-Ozark as a driver of workforce and economic development throughout the River Valley.

I invite you to connect with us and discover how Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus can partner with you, your organization, or your community. Whether you are an individual looking to build your skills, an employer seeking training solutions, or a community partner looking to address a workforce need, we are here to help. 

Ryan Mikles, Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development | wmikles@atu.edu

 

 

BUSINESS & industry

At Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus, the Business and Industry Department serves as a dynamic engine for workforce development. We connect industry and education to deliver responsive training solutions that help individuals skill, upskill, and reskill for today's job market.

We are dedicated to building a competitive, future-ready workforce—whether you're a company looking to develop your talent or a professional looking to grow. Through innovation, partnerships, and customized learning pathways, we help move people and businesses forward.

 
 

We design and deliver training that meets the real needs of employers and employees across Arkansas. Our services include:

  • Customized Workforce Training: Tailored programs delivered onsite, online, or on campus.

  • Industry Certifications: OSHA, SACA, AWS, Forklift, Leadership, and more.

  • Career Pathway Development: Helping employers build internal pipelines through structured training.

  • Upskilling & Reskilling Programs: Rapid training for emerging technologies and career transitions.

  • Grant & Partnership Support: We help secure funding and coordinate resources to lower the cost of training.

We serve sectors including advanced manufacturing, industrial maintenance, healthcare, transportation, and more.


 

Our impact

  • Thousands trained annually through industry partnerships, open enrollment, and customized trainings.

  • Workforce pipelines built for companies across Arkansas, from small businesses to global manufacturers.

  • Retention and promotion rates improved through targeted upskilling strategies.

We don’t just provide training—we help transform workplaces and careers.

 

Is your industry interested in customized training? Contact us to discuss the possibilities. 

 

Inquire for the FALL emr course:

September 1st - November 5th

Class will be held Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. at ATU-Ozark Campus.

This course qualifies for the Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship.

 

ABB Career Readiness Program

Arkansas Tech University - Ozark Campus, in collaboration with ABB Ozark, held its thrid career readiness program designed to equip individuals with the skills and credentials needed for success in the industrial workforce. The program featured four hands-on modules led by experienced ATU-Ozark instructors, offering participants practical training in advanced manufacturing.

Seven students completed the customized pre-career training program and are already making an impact. Each earned three college credit hours from ATU-Ozark and a nationally recognized SACA certification. These graduates are now officially part of the ABB team, turning training into action on day one!

CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANT COURSE

ATU-Ozark offers a CMA course (formerly MA-C) that allows an Arkansas CNA to gain additional training and certification.

CNA CERTIFICATION COURSE

ATU-Ozark Business & Industry and Adult Education partner together to hold frequent Certified Nursing Assistant courses. 

AWS Professional Welding Skilled Certification Course

ATU-Ozark held a week long accelerated course designed for experienced welders who were seeking to obtain their American Welding Society (AWS) professional welder certification.

 

Contact Us 

rmikles

Ryan Mikles

Vice Chancellor of Business Innovation and Economic Development
Technology and Academic Support
1700 Helberg Lane, Suite 121
Ozark, AR 72949
(479) 508-3348
 

 

Brooke Elser

Brooke Elser

Administrative Specialist III
Technology and Academic Support, Suite 131
1700 Helberg Lane
Ozark, AR 72949
(479) 667-2117

belser@atu.edu