With one of the highest concentrations of manufacturing employment in the state, Fort Smith faces both a tremendous opportunity and a pressing challenge: The need for a highly skilled workforce to sustain and drive industry growth.

According to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, job openings in manufacturing consistently outpace hiring two to one, with mechanical and electrical engineering positions among the hardest to fill. From 2016 to 2021, Arkansas saw a 15% increase in manufacturing GDP, with the Fort Smith region experiencing a 7% rise in manufacturing jobs. Despite this growth, the state struggles with a labor force participation rate, the seventh lowest in the nation.

In 2023, the university swiftly convened an Advanced Manufacturing Advisory Board, comprising leaders from major employers like Rheem, ABB, Walther Manufacturing, and more to define exactly what skills graduates need.

The result? A Bachelor’s Degree in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering that integrates sophisticated engineering skills, business acumen, and data science—preparing students to lead in an era where robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence are transforming production.

The program will be housed within a planned Center of Excellence in Advanced Manufacturing, featuring cutting-edge laboratories where students will work with industry-standard equipment. Already partially funded thanks to a $1 million gift from ABB, $4 million from the Department of Commerce, and $1.7 million from the Arkansas Division of Higher Education, the rapid pace of progress has been matched only by the strength of support from our region.

"This is about economic transformation," said Dr. Latisha Settlage, Dean of the College of Business and Industry. "We are building a program that not only serves students but strengthens the entire region."

Dr. Mauricio Torres, the new head of the Engineering Department at UAFS, will lead the bachelor’s program. With over a decade of experience in engineering education and program development, Torres brings expertise in designing curricula that align with industry needs. "The opportunity to build a department that connects students with hands-on learning and real-world problem solving is an exciting challenge," Torres said. "Manufacturing is the backbone of our regional economy, and we need a pipeline of engineers ready to take it into the future."

To complement the baccalaureate and certificate programs, the UAFS Center for Economic Development will launch a Manufacturing Academy, designed to provide rapid workforce training for entry-level jobs and expand its apprenticeship and upskilling programs for incumbent workers.

Kendall Ross, Associate Vice Chancellor for Economic and Workforce Development, will lead the Academy and a suite of courses offered by the CED. "Advanced manufacturing is the future of industry in Arkansas, and UAFS is ensuring our workforce is ready. Through hands-on training, updated technology, and industry partnerships, we’re empowering individuals with the skills they need to step into high-paying careers."