News

University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College Secures Grant for Energy Infrastructure and Utilities Workforce Development

The University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College (UA-PTC) has been awarded a $2,000,000 grant from the Arkansas Governor's Workforce Strategy Initiative. The grant will fund the development and implementation of a unique training program focused on energy infrastructure and utilities.

UA-PTC’s workforce development will focus on developing the skills of highly specialized energy grid operators and energy-grid cybersecurity experts. These individuals play a vital role in ensuring the reliable and cost-effective delivery of electricity to homes and businesses throughout Arkansas and beyond.

Approximately 155 applicants competed for the grant. UA-PTC was one of 19 applicants funded.

The program is a collaborative effort between UA-PTC and a diverse group of partners, including regional transmission operators, Midcontinent Independent System Operator, or MISO, and Southwest Power Pool; utility companies, Entergy, Today's Power, Arkansas Electric Cooperatives Corporation; educational institutions, University of Arkansas Little Rock, Arkansas Research Alliance; and Forge Institute. Together, these partners will create a pipeline to train and certify the next generation of energy grid professionals.

The program addresses two critical skills gaps in the energy industry:

• Need for NERC certification: North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) certification ensures individuals possess the knowledge and skills necessary to operate the bulk power system reliably.
• Cybersecurity expertise: energy-grid specific cybersecurity training is essential to protect critical infrastructure from cyberattacks.

The program offers several benefits for Arkansas and the surrounding region:

• Increased employment opportunities: Graduates from the program will be well-positioned to secure high-paying jobs in the energy sector.
• Enhanced grid reliability: a skilled workforce is essential for maintaining a reliable and secure energy grid.
• Reduced reliance on out-of-state training: currently, Arkansans seeking NERC certification must travel out of state for training.
• Economic growth: the program will contribute to the economic growth of Arkansas by developing a skilled workforce for a critical industry.

"MISO appreciates the collaboration with Entergy Arkansas, Southwest Power Pool, AR Electric Cooperative Cooperation, Today’s Power, and UA - Pulaski Tech as we work to identify and train the next generation of energy leaders," said Daryl Brown, MISO’s south region executive director. "Little Rock has grown to become a major hub for the electric power industry with public utilities and grid operators working together to keep the lights on for millions of people within the state and across the central U.S."

The project will be implemented over a two-year period. Objectives include development of NERC and cybersecurity training curricula; increasing the number of Arkansans with NERC certification; enhancing cybersecurity preparedness for the energy sector; and increasing awareness of career opportunities in energy infrastructure and utilities.

“As a Little Rock-based grid operator serving 14 states, we place an extremely high value in cybersecurity and reliability coordination,” said Bruce Rew, senior vice president of operations at SPP. “We’re excited to see this program develop in our home state. SPP is pleased to partner with UA Pulaski Tech to create learning and certification opportunities for those who are interested in careers in the electric industry. This effort will no doubt help ensure our industry’s long-term stability.”

The program is designed to be sustainable beyond the initial grant period. Strategies include transitioning the program to become self-supporting, expanding the training offerings, and establishing a long-term partnership with industry leaders.

"This grant represents a significant opportunity to develop a highly skilled workforce that will meet the critical needs of the energy industry," said Dr. Summer L. DeProw, Chancellor of UA-PTC. "We are grateful for the support of the Governor's Workforce Strategy Initiative and our industry partners. This collaborative effort will ensure Arkansas remains a leader in energy infrastructure and utilities."

Pictured, from left: Secretary of Commerce, Hugh McDonald;  Cody Waits, Director of Workforce Connection Division; Mike Rogers, Chief Workforce Officer;  Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders; UA-PTC Chancellor Summer DeProw; Sen. Jane English; Daryl Brown, Executive Director of External Affairs, Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO); and UA System President Donald R. Bobbitt