Main Content Start
U.S. Department of Labor Awards NorthWest Arkansas Community College More than $700,000
The U.S. Department of Labor awarded the University of Arkansas - Pulaski Technical College and partnering colleges more than $5 Million to help enlarge training and skill development for students pursuing in-demand jobs.
“The Department of Labor recognizes that the workforce in healthcare is continually growing and in continuous need. Two of the biggest shortages in healthcare are nursing and Emergency Medical Services personnel, and the Department is taking a great effort to combat the shortages across the nation,” said Dean of Health Professions Mark Wallenmeyer. “The Strengthening Community Colleges grant is greatly needed. Community colleges can get these healthcare workers into the workforce quickly.”
Of the $5 million, NorthWest Arkansas Community College will receive $736,177. The funds will focus on Nursing and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workforce development, which Dean Wallenmeyer feels will benefit students’ futures.
“This grant will allow community colleges to replace wearing and outdated equipment, as well as hire more educators to help with the training of nursing and EMS students,” said Dean Wallenmeyer. “Students need to train on the best equipment available, and this grant will help. The addition of more educators allows for a lower student-to-teacher ratio as well. This helps students get connected more with their instructors and gives them a better learning environment to be more successful.”
$65 million in awards were granted to 16 colleges in 14 states as part of the Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants, according to the Department of Labor, which the Employment and Training Administration directs. This is the fourth round of awards.
According to the University of Arkansas - Pulaski Technical College, sub-awarded organizations included five colleges:
- East Arkansas Community College
- U of A Phillips County Community College
- ASU Mid-South
- NorthWest Arkansas Community College
- Southeast Arkansas Community College.
NorthWest Arkansas Community College is expected to receive the funds next month.
For more information about the NorthWest Arkansas Community Nursing program, click here, and EMS workforce development, click here.
Interested in attending NWACC? Learn more about the college’s workforce and degree programs.