HIRED grant will assist SAU's development of Lithium workforce

Southern Arkansas University has released more information about the $2.75 million HIRED workforce grant it received Thursday, December 19, 2024.

The Higher Industry Readiness through Educational Development (HIRED) grant supports the development of an innovative workforce training initiative, LiTHIUMLEARNS.

Southwest Arkansas educators, industry professionals, and economic developers are partnering to ensure the workforce is ready to meet the demands of the potential development of the lithium industry in the region.

LiTHIUMLEARNS is a collaborative partnership between Southern Arkansas University, regional K-12 school districts, SAU Tech, South Arkansas College (SouthArk), the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT), and regional workforce development organizations, such as Apprenticely and The Venture Center. The partnerships aim to create a network of support services, including education, training, and professional certification programs, to build a skilled workforce for the rapidly growing lithium industry in Southwest Arkansas.

The Venture Center, for instance, will develop a LiTHIUMWORKS program committed to placing prepared workers with lithium employers in the area.

According to the Arkansas Division of Higher Education website, the Workforce Initiative Act of 2015 (A.C.A. 6-60-107) established the HIRED grant because "preparing and encouraging Arkansans to pursue high-demand jobs is essential to building a skilled and employment-ready workforce."

Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president, expressed his enthusiasm about the impact this grant will have.

"This grant marks a pivotal moment for both Southern Arkansas University and the entire region. It offers a significant opportunity to align our academic programs with the rapidly growing lithium industry, ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills and certifications required for these high-demand jobs. This initiative will not only strengthen our workforce but also foster long-term economic growth in Southwest Arkansas."

The HIRED Workforce Grant will support the creation of a mobile stem lab, designed to bring hands-on learning experiences directly to local communities across Southwest Arkansas. This initiative will enhance access to critical science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, equipping students and workers with the skills necessary for careers in the rapidly expanding lithium industry. Additionally, the grant will fund the development of a network of educational programs aimed at building the capacity of the region's natural science workforce.

By strengthening education and training infrastructure, the LiTHIUMLEARNS initiative will help ensure that the region's workforce is prepared for the future while fostering long-term economic growth and workforce sustainability in Southwest Arkansas.

"The HIRED Grant serves as another example of SAU's role as a central hub for collaboration and regional transformation, uniting stakeholders to advance workforce development through education, innovation, and partnerships that strengthen our community and fuel economic growth," said Dr. Robin Sronce, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs.

For more information about the LiTHIUMLEARNS initiative, email lithiumlearns@saumag.edu.