Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – Construction began earlier this spring on phase one of three for the upcoming Career Readiness Education and Skills Training (CREST) Center.

Arkansas State University is leading this regional workforce development initiative in collaboration with Arkansas State University-Newport and Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) of Blytheville.  

Leaders in the collaboration are hosting a construction ceremony at 8 a.m. Friday, Oct. 16, at 201 Longhorn Drive, across Aggie Road from the Judd Hill Farmers’ Market. Because the event is taking place during a busy time of the day, attendees should enter via Red Wolf Blvd. to avoid traffic congestion. 

“This event marks the beginning of an investment that extends beyond a new building,” said ASU System President Todd Shields. “CREST will prepare Arkansans with the skills employers need today while creating pathways to rewarding careers that strengthen families, businesses and local economies across our region.”  

“CREST is designed to equip current and future workers with industry-aligned skills needed to succeed in Northeast Arkansas’ fastest-growing sectors while helping regional employers meet workforce demands,” said Chancellor Calvin White Jr. 

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A $7.5 million grant from the Arkansas Department of Commerce Higher Industry Readiness through Educational Development (HIRED) program is making this project possible. Regional organizations and government partners are providing additional funding, including Craighead County, Jonesboro Unlimited, Workforce Training Consortium, and Hytrol Conveyor Co. 

“This project demonstrates what can happen when state leaders, higher education institutions, and industry share a common vision,” said Shields. “The support we’ve received has positioned Northeast Arkansas to become a leader in workforce development, and we’re excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.” 

When completed, CREST will open doors to new opportunities for workers in the state.  

“Phase one will focus on steel technology, industrial controls, and advanced manufacturing skill training through our partners ASU-Newport and ANC,” Shields added. “It will include technical certificates, certificates of proficiency, and associate’s degrees.”  

CREST project lead and former chancellor at ASU-Mountain Home, Dr. Robin Myers, said the 26,000-square-foot, $17 million project is expected to be completed in spring 2027. 

“The phase one building will serve as a multi-purpose workforce training center that will feature workforce training labs for advanced manufacturing, automation and industrial technologies,” said Myers.

The building currently under construction will feature classroom space, a computer lab, and a manufacturing high-bay lab space. The space will also include collaborative meeting and community spaces as well as offices and student study areas. 

“CREST will unite workforce training in the region and specialize in AI-enhanced advanced manufacturing, food processing, and steel production. CREST will offer ‘stackable’ credentials in a flexible format serving the current and future workforce,” Myers continued.  

Phase two will be a space for applied bachelor’s degrees in food science, engineering technology and technical studies. Phase three will support advanced steel research led by the Center for Advanced Materials and Steel Manufacturing.  

“The CREST Center will be a catalyst for economic growth because it connects people to high-demand careers, supplies employers with skilled talent, and positions the region to compete for jobs and investment in the industries of the future,” said Andrea Allen, director of the Delta Center for Economic Development at A-State.  

Allen said the center will help address the need for trained, skilled workers, which is one of the greatest challenges for the region.  

“By aligning training with the needs of advanced manufacturing, steel production, and food processing industries, CREST helps support business expansion, attract new investment, and create pathways to high-wage careers for Northeast Arkansas residents.” 

Classes in the phase one building are expected to begin in fall 2027. Some classes are already being held through CREST at the Workforce Training Center in the Industrial Park and on campus at A-State in the College of Agriculture and the College of Engineering and Computer Science.  

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