Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce launches Be Pro Be Proud workforce initiative

The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Industries of Arkansas (ASCC/AIA) have announced the launch of a new initiative, Be Pro Be Proud, to bring a new generation of pride, progress, and professionals to Arkansas’ skilled workforce.

Today’s skilled professional workforce is aging out, and the next generation of new talent is not sufficient to fill the demand. Nationwide, there are an estimated 5.6 million job openings; about 60,000 of those are in Arkansas, and most are in highly skilled technical fields in manufacturing.

The initiative targets high school and nontraditional students, current skilled professionals, legislators, parents, teachers, career coaches, and employers to dispel the myths about skilled trade professions, showcase current skilled professionals’ true vocational pride, highlight the many career opportunities available within these trades, and provide necessary resources and training to those interested.

The initiative uses a mobile unit to travel the state and visit companies, schools, and events to showcase skilled trade professions and broaden awareness of their impact on the state’s workforce. The mobile unit provides information about training resources, currently available positions and descriptions, skills needed, and how to get started in a skilled professional career.

The initiative’s website, www.beprobeproud.org, serves as a content hub for young professionals to learn more and to find training and job opportunities. Employers can also use the site to actively engage students, current skilled trade professionals can become ambassadors and work with students to spur interest, and parents and educators can arm themselves with the necessary materials for encouraging students to learn about potential career opportunities. Social media channels designed to help maintain awareness about the need for skilled professionals will also support the initiative and provide relevant updates during the campaign.