In an effort to address workforce issues in manufacturing, construction, transportation and agricultural sectors, the Arkansas State Chamber/AIA is convening the 2014 Jobs Now Summit on Tuesday, September 23 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Statehouse Convention Center in downtown Little Rock.
The numbers don’t lie. Employees with the most experience and responsibility are retiring at an increasing rate. Reinforcements are not today in great enough supply to keep up with demand. Arkansas businesses are constrained as a result. Finding solutions to the workforce question is a global one and requires everyone’s input. Broad ownership of a framework linking workforce needs to policies and program is required and your participation is important. We have invited a slate of national leaders and key stakeholders to provide important insight into the issues facing Arkansas, and the nation as a whole, as well as solutions and strategies already in action here at home.
Below is a sketch of the Jobs Now Summit agenda:
Opening Comments from Governor Mike Beebe, Governor of Arkansas
Keynote presentation: Jennifer McNelly, President of The Manufacturing Institute. The Manufacturing Institute is the authority on the attraction, qualification, and development of world-class manufacturing talent. The Institute is the place where we exceed expectations and deliver results to help close the skills gap.
Morning Session leader: Ted Abernathy, Managing Partner, Economic Leadership & Economic Advisor to Southern Governor’s Association
National Keynote Arm Chair Discussion: Steve Williams, Chairman and CEO of Maverick Transportation, Phil Simon, Global Education & Training Manager, John Deere, Inc., & Bill Hannah, Chairman of the Board, Nabholz Construction Services
Afternoon Panel Discussion: Joe Quinn, Senior Director of Public Affairs and Government Relations, Walmart, Inc., Chris Masingill, Federal Co-Chairman, Delta Regional Authority
Dr. Glen Fenter, President, Mid-South Community College and Dr. Jim Rollins, Superintendent, Springdale Public Schools (invited)
Closing Keynote: Dr. Willard Daggett, Founder & Chairman, International Center for Leadership in Education
We are seeking 10 attendees from all 75 counties representing the business community, economic & community development, workforce, elected officials (local and state), education (secondary and postsecondary), education coops, PTAs.
Registration for the Jobs Now Summit is $35. Click on the link below. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
We look forward to your participation. If you have any questions, please contact me or Andrew Parker at (501) 372-2222.