Career Watch Arkansas 2021 by Career Watch Arkansas

Career Watch Arkansas

www.careerwatch.org

It’s not a job. It’s a career. 2021 EDITION | Volume 30

Manufacturing Occupations Interviews Resumes Colleges Financial Aid Scholarships

www.careerwatch.org | 1

Career Watch Arkansas Division of Workforce Services Director

Charisse Childers, Ph.D.

Program Operations Manager Belinda Hodges Labor Market Information

Editor

Spencer Griffin

Occupational/Career Information Staff Cecilia Ortiz Brian Pulliam

Career Watch Arkansas is an annual publication of the Division of Workforce Services. A digital version of this magazine is available at: www.careerwatch.org The Career Watch Arkansas Teacher’s Guide and other educational materials are available in PDF format at: www.discover.arkansas.gov under the Publications link. The editorial staff would like to thank the following for their contributions to this publication:

From the Governor

Arkansas Workforce Development Board Arkansas Department of Career Education U.S. Department of Labor Arkansas Division of Higher Education A goal of DWS is to improve, through coordination and standardization, the development, quality and use of occupational information for career decision-making, program planning and economic development. DWS coordinates information to meet the needs of individuals, especially youth, who are making career decisions, while also providing information to support economic development issues. The Career Watch Arkansas Teacher’s Guide and other educational materials are available in PDF format at: www.discover.arkansas.gov under the Publications link. DWS is extremely interested in making this publication as useful and informative as possible. Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas or additional copy requests to:

Division of Workforce Services Spencer Griffin Occupational Career Information Labor Market Information P.O. Box 2981 Little Rock, AR 72203 Telephone: (501) 682-3117 Voice: 1-800-285-1121 TDD: 1-800-285-1131 Fax: (501) 682-3186 Email: Spencer.Griffin@arkansas.gov adws.careerwatch@arkansas.gov “Equal Opportunity Employer/Programs” “Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities."

Dear Students: As we are faced with new challenges in our nation, we look to you–the future leaders in communities across Arkansas–to help lay the foundation for the next generation. The bold choices you make while in school toward your career path will ultimately guide your choices once you graduate. A decision to choose an occupation within the critical and economically stimulating career cluster of manufacturing will help, not only you, but the citizens of Arkansas and our nation. Growing up in Gravette, Arkansas, I knew I loved Arkansas but wasn't sure of my career path. I developed a love for public service, and now, as Governor, I am able to help solve problems and serve the people of Arkansas. There will always be a need for occupations related to manufacturing. Individuals rely on the hard work and quality of welders, machinists, CNC operators, and other such personnel in the workforce. I am confident the future and care of Arkansans is in excellent and dependable hands. Good luck to each of you!

In just a few minutes, this publication can be made better by you! Just fill out the survey on the back of this page and return it to us. We would love to hear your feedback. It’s not a job. It’s a career. •www.careerwatch.org•

Take the Survey!

Help us out!

Please take a few moments to evaluate Career Watch Arkansas. Let us know what your information needs are and if this magazine meets those needs. Please indicate your overall level of satisfaction.

How do you plan to use this information?

Very Satisfied

Education/Career Planning

Satisfied

Economic Planning

Indifferent

Wage/Employment Study

Dissatisfied

Industry or Technology Study

Very Dissatisfied

Other, please list

––––––––––––––––––––––

How useful was the information?

Please indicate what sector you represent.

Very Useful

Student

Useful

Teacher

Fair

Educational Counselor

Not very Useful

Parent

Not Useful at All

Dislocated Worker Other, please list

––––––––––––––––––––––

–––––––––––––––––––––––

Would you recommend Career Watch Arkansas to others? Yes No What could make Career Watch Arkansas more useful?

Mail the completed form to: Division of Workforce Services Attn: Spencer Griffin P.O. Box 2981 Little Rock, AR 72203

Fax to: 501-682-3186 Attn: Spencer Griffin

CONTENTS 10-17

Manufacturing degrees, occupations, pathways & in-demand list

18-21

Financial Aid & Grants

22-25 27-42 44-47, 52-55 48 49 50 51 58 59

Colleges & Universities in Arkansas

2021-2022 Occupations & Careers

Articles from professionals

Skills to Pay the Bills

Top 10 Occupations by Education

Your Path to College

So,You Want to Go Pro?

Education Pays

Pocket Resume

Resume T Guide

here's no telling just how many resumes an employer might get in a day for a job. It's the first impression you make to a prospective employer, and it only takes 10 to 15 seconds to determine if you will be called in for an interview.

TOP RESUME STRATEGIES Here are four strategies to make your resume unique: Brand yourself - Identify what makes you different from other applicants. Identify your transferable skills - These skills are major selling points that set you apart. Most soft skills (skills that are difficult to quantify and are less tangible, such as problem solving and teamwork) are considered transferable skills. Some hard skills (skills that are able to be defined and measured, such as writing or mathematics) can fall into this category through specific classes a student has completed. Highlight your accomplishments - Listing accomplishments gives you credibility. Use keywords effectively - Specific words used in your resume are critical to communicate your value to an organization.

WHY HAVE A GREAT RESUME • Grab the attention of employers. • Sell your strongest skills and accomplishments. • Show why you are a potential match for a position or project. • Communicate your current capabilities and future potential. • It helps you take the next step in your career. • It gets you the interview.

DO'S AND DON'TS

4 | Career Watch Arkansas

DO INCLUDE

DON'T INCLUDE

• Name, address, phone number, & email address • Work history • Education, Certificates, and licensures • Volunteer work & internships • Notable achievements

• References to your age (e.g. year of high school graduation) • Personal information (e.g. religion, social security number, disabilities) • Slang • Irrelevant information • False statements • Abbreviations • First person language (e.g. "I" or "my")

John Smith

Any Town, USA ● 555.555.5555 ● johnsmith@smith.net

Types of resumes Functional This type groups your work experience and skills by skill area or job function. This type is good to use to minimize gaps in employment history, while showcasing the work experience that is most important to your career objective. A functional resume works best for first-time job seekers or those changing careers.

Chronological The most common type of resume, it illustrates progress you have made toward your career objective through employment history. Your most recent work experiences are listed first, followed by the next most recent experience. It is best to use this type of resume if you have demonstrated experience within your desired career field.

Combination A combination of the chronological and functional resumes, this type presents the knowledge, skills, and abilities gained from work in reverse chronological order. This format is best if you have a varied employment history or wish to include volunteer or internship experience.

Quick Tips

• Keep the resume to one or two pages, no more. • Always include a cover letter with your resume. Tell the employer what makes

you better suited for the job than your competition and how your skills can help the company succeed.

• Proofread, and proofread again. Ask several people to proofread your resume and cover letter. Did you proofread?

• Do not include personal information such as age, gender, marital status, race, height, and weight.

• Use a professional e-mail; seniorsrule@yahoo.com won’t cut it. If needed, create a new account just for this purpose.

• No fancy fonts. Use an easy-to-read font such as Arial, Helvetica, Calibri or Georgia in 10 or 12 points, and don’t use scripts or underlining. Use bold or italics if you need to highlight important items.

• Use a good quality, heavy bond paper in white or off-white with matching

envelopes. Do not fold your resume and cover letter when mailing by snail mail.

• Have a list of references ready, but make sure you have permission to use them. For more information and examples, go to www.careeronestop.org and click on “Job Search” www.careerwatch.org | 5

A Better Letter

riting a good cover letter can make or break you when it comes to landing the job of your dreams. Many times we think prospective employers skip over the cover letter, but that's not actually the case. In fact, the cover letter provides employers with a small glimpse into who his or her future employee is. Use these tips below to craft a superb cover letter, ensuring you at least get some consideration for the position in which you seek. On the next page, you can see an example of what a cover letter should look like. 6 | Career Watch Arkansas

Length You don't want your cover letter to seem like you're just doing it because the employer is asking for it, even if that is the case.You also don't want to go on rambling for pages.Try to keep your cover letter between 3-5 paragraphs with meaningful content in each paragraph.

Sample Cover Letter August 28, 2020 Jane Doe Office Manager ABC Company 999 Nowhere Lane Anywhere, St 99999

Passion

Dear Ms. Doe,

Let your passion flow through the words of your cover letter. Let the employer know you were meant for this job and that you truly want it. After all, you applied for this particular job for a reason, didn't you?

I am a detail-oriented individual with a knack for organization, scheduling, and proper documentation. I have two years experience managing the day-to-day tasks and functions of a modern office my can-do attitude would be perfect as a candidate for the administrative assistant position at ABC Company.

Be different Let the employer know what sets you apart from other potential interviewees.This can be anything from your ability to communicate at work to specific hard skills you've acquired..

Show personality Tell whoever is reading your cover letter what attitude and philosophies you can bring to the workplace. This means letting them know if you are a diligent worker, punctual, a creative thinker, or any other positive attribute you possess that can help improve the company.

In the job ad, you mentioned that you’re looking for someone with an all-around mentality, capable of organizing the office workplace, filing documents, planning meetings and events, and liaising with clients, as needed. I excelled as a teacher’s assistant utilizing the skills while assisting instructors by organizing classrooms, setting class schedules, and filing student paperwork. Considering every requirement you listed within the job posting, I’m sure I will meet and exceed your expectations should you give me the chance. I’d love the opportunity to talk further about your objectives and ideas for the office, including the role I can to play in the coming years as an administrative assistant. Sincerely, Mary Smith 999-999-9999 Marysmith2020@gmail.com

Notice the clean, unique look of this cover letter. It achieves the goal of looking different than standard cover letters while also allowing for plenty of space to input information and a passionate narrative

Special skills Describe what skills you possess that allow you to be right for the position and that can help further the business's success.This can include specific skills related to the position or even general skills that can be beneficial like teamwork. www.careerwatch.org | 7

Your resume has caught the attention of a prospective employer, and you have an interview. What's the next step? Here are a few tips to help you ace the interview.

Wear the Right Outfit.

Check with the HR department for the company's dress code. Wear clean, pressed, conservative, neutralcolored clothes. Avoid excessive make-up and jewelry. Have nails and hair neat, clean, and trimmed. Don't overdo your favorite perfume or cologne.

Be Professional.

Know the name, title, and the pronunciation of the interviewer's name. Give a firm handshake and maintain good eye contact. Take a notepad, pen, and multiple copies of your resume. Don't talk about your personal life, and don't badmouth former employers.

Send a Thank You Note.

Here's a chance to make a final impression on the interviewer. It will likely prove to be much appreciated and remembered. Try to send the letter within 24 hours, and remember, a hand-written thank you note is more impressive than one that is emailed.

Questions? Don't let the interviewer ask all the questions. In fact, they expect you to ask some! Have questions prepared to learn more about the position and the company, such as: • How soon are you looking to fill this position? • What is the typical career path for this job? • What are some of the biggest challenges facing this position, this department, or this organization?

Be On Time.

Know where you are going, allowing time for traffic and parking. Show up 10 to 15 minutes early; arriving late to the interview says a great deal about you. Keep your cell phone charged and have the interviewer's number handy in case circumstances are beyond your control, but turn it off before the interview.

8 | Career Watch Arkansas

• What is an average day on this job like? • How would you describe the ideal candidate? • What kind of training and/or professional development programs do the company offer?

Arkansas' 2021-2022 Demand Occupations

High Skill

(requires a bachelor's degree or higher)

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Title

Total Annual Openings

May 2020 Mean Wage

General and Operations Managers

1,766

$91,530

Registered Nurses

1,357

$63,640

Clergy

1,295

$54,670

Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education

946

$49,380

Accountants and Auditors

839

$69,740

Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

827

$52,540

Management Analysts

691

$65,640

Medical and Health Services Managers

573

$89,700

Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists

518

$68,790

Financial Managers

495

$112,190

Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

469

$51,360

Human Resources Specialists

373

$58,050

Buyers and Purchasing Agents

312

$78,400

Construction Managers

282

$85,500

Moderate Skill

(requires an associate degree, postsecondary nondegree award or some college with no degree)

Nurse Practitioners

Basic Skill

(requires a high school diploma or equivalent or no formal education is required)

274

$106,210

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

3,835

$46,630

Nursing Assistants

1,841

$26,550

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

1,410

$36,910

Teaching Assistants, Except Postsecondary

1,070

$23,130

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses

866

$41,760

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics

532

$40,470

Medical Assistants

456

$31,530

Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education

445

$32,930

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

351

$25,400

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

346

$41,750

Dental Assistants

313

$36,480

Computer User Support Specialists

283

$43,010

Paralegals and Legal Assistants

235

$40,420

Firefighters

204

$39,730

Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers

172

$48,230

Fast Food and Counter Workers

5,510

$22,210

Cashiers

4,499

$23,830

Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers

4,374

$75,820

Retail Salespersons

4,268

$28,090

Office Clerks, General

2,928

$32,880

Home Health and Personal Care Aides

2,585

$23,510

Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

2,561

$26,680

Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand

2,547

$28,910

Stockers and Order Fillers

2,343

$27,960

Waiters and Waitresses

2,300

$22,220

Customer Service Representatives

2,075

$34,730

Childcare Workers

1,481

$23,050

Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive

1,424

$32,000

Receptionists and Information Clerks

1,399

$28,720

First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers

1,348

$51,070 www.careerwatch.org | 9

he manufacturing career cluster contains critical operations that have far-reaching impacts throughout the world regardless of industry or occupation. It is important to prepare individuals for employment in the career pathways related to the field. It is also necessary to note the specific areas that apply to manufacturing and the skills needed within its pathways. This publication hopes to accomplish just that. There are a wealth of occupations across numerous industries in the manufacturing career cluster, many of which prove to be crucial to the state's economy as well as to national and global success.This includes occupations such as assemblers and fabricators, welders, production works, engineers, and so much more.Workers in these occupations have the opportunity to make a large impact in the world while working with their hands. The manufacturing career cluster allows individuals a wide range of tasks in which to focus, but there are basic skills needed that encompass most of the occupations in the field.These include skills such as equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, critical thinking, and much more. Basic skills also include those that are important in everyday life including oral and written comprehension, deductive reasoning, mathematics, monitoring, and more. Along with these general skills, workers in the manufacturing field will also be expected to acquire specific skills corresponding to their respective occupations such as skills involving welding, computer aided design software, 3D modeling software, etc. In the manufacturing industry, there are two pathways one can take with six total programs of study.An individual can go through the maintenance, instal10 | Career Watch Arkansas

lation and repair pathway, which has two programs of study: Industrial Equipment Technologies and Major Appliance Technology, or the manufacturing production pathway, which has four programs of study: Electronics,Advanced Manufacturing, Precision Machine Manufacturing, and Welding. It is important that these individuals make their decisions about which part of the manufacturing industry they would like to be a part of in order to enter the pathway that will most interest them. For example, if an individual wants to venture down the path of manufacturing production with a focus on welding, he or she will need to take the proper courses to gain the appropriate skills and abilities, such as arm-hand steadiness, control precision, and manual dexterity, in order to be successful in the field. Individuals working in the manufacturing career cluster typically require at least a high school diploma, although there are specific cases in which it that might not be necessary, or cases in which it might be more beneficial to possess a higher degree. Occupations in this cluster include maintenance and repair workers, mechanical engineering technologists and technicians, welders, computer numerically controlled tool operators, and many more.

Fast facts: 158,852 manufacturing jobs in Arkansas in 2020 Average 2020 annual salary of

$61,605 per job

Top manufacturing companies in Arkansas by business size (out of 2,936): 1. Tyson Foods Inc. - 3,000 2. Mckee Foods Corporation - 2,000 3. Baxter Healthcare Corp. - 1,760

Top employed manufacturing occupations of 2020: 1. Miscellaneous Assemblers and Fabricators - 9,288 2. Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers - 8,169 3. First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers - 7,071

Manufacturing degrees & certifications

here are lots of degree and certification options in Arkansas through the various universities, colleges and technical schools. Training and education for manufacturing in the state should be easy to find. Here are just a few of the programs:

www.careerwatch.org | 11

hese are just a few of the occupations in Manufacturing. To learn about other occupations, go to http://online.onetcenter.org/find/ and browse by Career Cluster.

Welder, Cutter, Solderer and Brazer Use hand-welding, flame-cutting, hand-soldering, or brazing equipment to weld or join metal components or to fill holes, indentations, or seams of fabricated metal products. Sample of reported job titles: Aluminum Welder, Assembly Line Brazer, Brazer, Fabrication Welder, Fabricator,

12 | Career Watch Arkansas

Maintenance Welder, Solderer, Sub Arc Operator, Welder, Wirer Earnings (mean): $39,560 Estimated workers employed: 5,260 Education: High school diploma

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologist and Technician Operate, install, adjust, and maintain integrated computer/communications systems, consoles, simulators, and other data acquisition, test, and measurement instruments and equipment, which are used to launch, track, position, and evaluate air and space vehicles. May record and interpret test data. Sample of reported job titles: Avionics Installation Technician, Avionics Technician, Avionics Test Technician, Engineering

Technician, Engineering Test Technician, Flight Test Instrument Technician, Instrumentation Technician, Systems Test Technician, Test Technician Earnings (mean): N/A Estimated workers employed: N/A Education: Post-secondary certificate

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operator Operate computer-controlled tools, machines, or robots to machine or process parts, tools, or other work pieces made of metal, plastic, wood, stone, or other materials. May also set up and maintain equipment. Sample of reported job titles: Brake Press Operator, Computer Numerical Control Lathe Operator, Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator, Computer Numerical Control Machinist, Computer Numerical

Control Mill Operator, Computer Numerical Control Operator Computer Numerical Control Set-Up and Operator, Machine Operator, Machine Set-Up Operator, Machinist Earnings (mean): $38,920 Estimated workers employed: 1,910 Education: High school diploma

Mechanical Engineering Technologist and Technician Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, test, or adjust machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.

Technician, Process Engineering Technician, Process Technician, Research and Development Technician Earnings (mean): $58,400

Sample of reported job titles: Engineering Lab Technician, Engineering Technical Analyst, Engineering Technologist, Laboratory Technician, Maintenance Technician, Mechanical Designer, Mechanical

Estimated workers employed: 100

Wind Turbine Service Technician Inspect, diagnose, adjust, or repair wind turbines. Perform maintenance on wind turbine equipment including resolving electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic malfunctions. Sample of reported job titles: Field Service Technician; Maintenance Technician; Operations, Maintenance and Service Wind Turbine Technician (OMS Wind Turbine Technician); Senior

Wind Turbine Technician; Wind Farm Support Specialist; Wind Technician; Wind Turbine Service Technician; Wind Turbine Technician Earnings (mean): N/A Estimated workers employed: N/A Education: High school diploma

Medical Equipment Repairer Test, adjust, or repair biomedical or electromedical equipment.

tronic Technician, Repair Technician, Service Technician, X-ray Service Engineer

Sample of reported job titles: Bio Medical Technician, Biomed Tech (Biomedical Technician), Biomedical Electronics Technician, Biomedical Engineering Technician (BMET), Biomedical Equipment Technician (BMET), Dental Equipment Technician, Elec-

Earnings (mean): $43,100 Estimated workers employed: 470 Education: High school diploma

Education: Post-secondary certificate

www.careerwatch.org | 13

areer Clusters contain occupations in the same field of work that require similar skills. Students, parents and educators can use Career Clusters to help focus education plans toward obtaining the necessary knowledge, competencies, and training for success in a particular career pathway.

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

Education & Training

Hospitality & Tourism

Manufacturing

14 | Career Watch Arkansas

Architecture & Construction

Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications

Business Management & Administration

Finance

Government & Public Administration

Health Science

Human Services

Information Technology

Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security

Marketing

Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

Manufacturing Career Cluster

In high school, Career Clusters are designed to give you the guidance you need to be successful in a career. Sixteen Career Clusters have been developed to help you explore your career opportunities. Within these Career Clusters are career pathways that are more specialized. These pathways will help you explore more specific careers. In addition, many of the classes can earn you college credit if you successfully pass the course. The Manufacturing Career Cluster prepares individuals for employment in career pathways

that relate to problem solving and critical thinking occupations such as welders, engineers, assemblers and more. The following pages include: a sample high school class schedule; classes that are required for graduation; programs of study, including work-based activities; and In-Demand occupations — all to help you further your education. Other Career Clusters are offered in Arkansas secondary schools. Talk with your career guidance counselor to see what career pathways are offered in your school.

Sample High School Schedule

9th Grade

10th Grade

11th Grade

12th Grade

English/Language Arts I Algebra I or Geometry Earth or Life or Physical Science or Biology State History or Geography

English/Language Arts II Algebra II or Geometry Biology or Chemistry U.S. History

English/Language Arts II Pre-Calculus or Algebra II Chemistry or Physics World History or Psychology

English/Language Arts IV Pre-Calculus or Calculus or Trigonometry or Statistics Physics or other science course Government or Economics www.careerwatch.org | 15

Manufacturing Pathways

Pathway – Maintenance, Installation, and Repair Program of Study – Major Appliance Technology Core Courses – Major Appliance Technology I, Major Appliance Technology II, Major Appliance Technology Lab, Youth Apprenticeship: T&I: MFT, Career Practicum: T&I Pathway – Manufacturing Production Program of Study – Advanced Manufacturing Core Courses – Introduction to Manufacturing, Design for Manufacturing, Manufacturing Production Processes, Machine Power and Equipment Systems, Youth Apprenticeship: T&I MFT, Career Practicum: T&I Pathway – Manufacturing Production Program of Study – Welding Core Courses – Metal Fabrication, Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Gas Metal Arc Welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, Advanced Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Welding Lab, Youth Apprenticeship: T&I MFT, Career Practicum: T&I MFT

16 | Career Watch Arkansas

Pathway – Maintenance, Installation, and Repair Program of Study – Industrial Equipment Technologies Core Courses – Industrial Technologies I, Industrial Technologies II, Industrial Technologies Lab, Electronics I, Electronics II, Electronics Lab, Machine Tool I, Machine Tool II, Machine Tool Lab, Youth Apprenticeship: T&I MFT, Career Practicum: T&I MFT

Pathway – Manufacturing Production Program of Study – Electronics Core Courses – Electronics I, Electronics II, Electronics Lab, Youth Apprenticeship: T&I MIRP, Career Practicum: T&I

Pathway – Manufacturing Production Program of Study – Precision Machine Manufacturing Core Courses – Machine Tool I, Machine Tool II, Machine Tool Lab, Youth Apprenticeship – T&I: MFT, Career Practicum: T&I MFT

Manufacturing Career Cluster In-demand Occupations

hese are occupations that are found in an industry cluster that are projected to add a significant number of new jobs to our state's economy, or are existing or emerging occupations being transformed by technology and innovations, or are vital to the overall health of our economy. Education

Mean Wage Hourly/Annual

$24.15/$50,230

$19.72/$41,030

$18.33/$38,130

Helpers--Production Workers

$14.19/$29,520

Machinists

$21.91/$45,570

Miscellaneous Assemblers and Fabricators

$15.60/$32,440

Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

$15.91/$33,090

Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

$17.01/$35,380

Packers and Packagers, Hand

$13.87/$28,850

Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

$20.66/$42,960

Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood

$14.78/$30,740

Stockers and Order Fillers

$13.44/$27,960

Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters

$17.41/$36,210

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers

$19.02/$39,560

Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing

$14.74/$30,650

Occupation Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

D - Doctoral or professional degree - Requires at least three years of full-time academic study beyond a bachelor's degree. M - Master's degree - Requires one or two years of full-time academic study beyond a bachelor's degree. B - Bachelor's degree - Requires four or five years of full-time academic study. A - Associate degree - Requires at least two years of full-time academic study. PS - Postsecondary non-degree award - Programs last a few weeks to more than a year; leads to a certificate or other award. SC - Some college, no degree - Requires the completion of a high school diploma or equivalent plus the completion of one or more postsecondary courses that did not result in a degree or award. HS - High School diploma or equivalent - Requires the completion of high school or an equivalent program resulting in the award of a high school diploma or an equivalent. NFE - No Formal Education - Signifies that a formal credential issued by an educational institution, such as a high school diploma or postsecondary certificate, is not typically needed for entry into the occupation.

www.careerwatch.org | 17

How will I pay for college? Financial Aid Frequently Asked Questions

f you are planning to attend college, you should do a little research first. Find out how much it will cost to go to college, what part of that cost you and your family will be expected to pay, and what types of financial aid are available. The following information is intended to get you started. What is Financial Aid? Financial aid is money awarded to a student to help pay educational costs. Most financial aid is awarded according to individual need and educational costs. The federal government, state government, postsecondary institutions, and private organizations provide financial aid to eligible students in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and employment. Grants and scholarships are awarded based on either financial need or merit and do not have to be paid back. Employment can be a job provided by the college and can be on or off campus. A loan is money provided by a bank, the college, or the government, which must be paid back with interest. Private sources of financial aid come from social and civic organizations, religious organizations, and businesses. How much does it cost to attend college? Educational costs can differ significantly from one school to another, depending on the type of school and your program of study. In general, costs are lowest at a public vocational-technical school, higher at a public community or technical college, still higher at a public four-year college, and highest at a private college. The total cost of attending school today may range from $2,000 per year to more than $30,000 per year. Financial aid programs have been created to help you pay for these costs. Schools with higher costs often have more financial aid available than lower cost schools. Therefore, when comparing costs, it’s very important to determine the financial aid available. This way you can determine what your out-of-pocket expenses will be. But remember, cost is only one factor in selecting a school. Consider your goals, what programs and opportunities each school offers, and how 18 | Career Watch Arkansas

well that school will help you meet your goals. What do educational costs include? The total educational costs are called the Cost of Attendance (COA) and include (1) tuition and fees, (2) books and supplies, (3) room and board, (4) transportation, and (5) miscellaneous personal expenses, such as clothing, laundry, and recreation. Because the COA includes items that are living costs but are not paid directly to the school, the actual amount billed by the school will be less than the COA. What is the family’s responsibility? The primary responsibility for financing a college education rests with the student and his/her family. The family is expected to pay for the cost of college to the extent that it is able. Financial assistance is designed to help with the difference between what the family can afford and the cost of attendance. The student shares in the family’s responsibility to pay for college and is expected to contribute from his/her earnings and savings. The amount the family is expected to pay toward the cost of college is called the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). How is the family’s expected contribution determined? Colleges, government agencies and organizations that award financial aid based on financial need use a process called Needs Analysis to determine how much the family is expected to pay towards the cost of a college education. This process uses both the parent’s and student’s income and assets and other information about the family, such as the number of family members in college, to calculate the Expected Family Contribution. During the needs

EDUCATION COSTS analysis calculations, certain allowances are applied to protect the family’s income and assets for the cost of living and future retirement needs. The needs analysis is performed by the U.S. Department of Education based on the information provided by the family on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is the basic form required for most financial aid programs based on financial need. Any student who wishes to apply for financial assistance should complete and submit this application. The FAFSA application can be applied for online at www.fafsa.gov. How is eligibility for financial aid determined? Most financial aid is awarded based on financial need. The Cost of Attendance minus the Expected Family Contribution equals financial need. The school you attend uses the EFC calculated during needs analysis and the school’s cost of attendance to determine your eligibility for need-based financial aid. Some aid is merit based, meaning eligibility is based on performance or achievement, such as athletic scholarships or academic scholarships based on ACT scores, or GPA. How much financial aid can I receive? The total financial aid a student receives can include funds from more than one source or financial aid program. Normally, though, the total financial aid received will not exceed the financial need, or in some cases, the cost of attendance. For the best chance of getting the aid you need, apply as early as possible for each financial aid program for which you might be eligible.

Helpful Websites www.adhe.edu www.asla.info www.careeronestop.org www.careerwatch.org www.discover.arkansas.gov www.fafsa.gov www.fundmyfuture.info www.going2college.org www.knowhow2go.org www.mappingyourfuture.org

www.careerwatch.org | 19

Scholarships, Grants, and Federal Aid Arkansas Scholarships and Grants Academic Challenge Scholarship - High School The Academic Challenge Program provides scholarships to Arkansas residents pursuing a higher education. Funded in large part by the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, the Academic Challenge Scholarship is available to students regardless of their academic status, whether just graduating from high school, currently enrolled in college, enrolling in college for the first time, or re-enrolling after a period of time out of college. Scholarship Deadline to Apply: June 1 Academic Challenge Scholarship - Non-Traditional Students The Academic Challenge Program provides scholarships to Arkansas residents pursuing a higher education. Funded in large part by the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, the Academic Challenge Scholarship is available to students regardless of their academic status, whether just graduating from high school, currently enrolled in college, enrolling in college for the first time, or re-enrolling after a period of time out of college. Scholarship Deadline to Apply:August 1 Arkansas Future Grant (ARFuture) - High School Non-Traditional Students The purpose of this grant is to increase the education and skills of Arkansas’s workforce in an affordable manner. The grant applies to students enrolled in Science,Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) or regional high demand areas of study. The grant will cover tuition and fees for qualifying certificate and Associate degree programs at Arkansas’ public institutions for eligible students.The grant is available on a first come, first serve basis. Scholarship Deadline to Apply:August 1 Arkansas Health Education Grant (ARHEG) Graduate Students ARHEG provides financial assistance to students seeking professional training in chiropractic medicine, dentistry, optometry, osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, and veterinary medicine to allow them to attend out-of-state institutions. Scholarship Deadline to Apply: July 1 Arkansas Workforce Challenge - High School The Workforce Challenge Scholarship was created in the 2017 legislative session and is funded by lottery revenue. The purpose of the scholarship is for workforce training in high demand areas of healthcare, information technology, and industry. Classes are not limited to credit-bearing programs. Non-credit, workforce-training classes that fit into the three above categories may also qualify.The Workforce Challenge Award will be the cost of a certificate program or program of study not to exceed $800. Students who receive the Arkansas Workforce Challenge scholarship cannot be current recipients of the Academic Challenge Scholarship. Scholarship Deadline to Apply:At least 30 days prior to enrollment in an eligible program.

Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship - High School The Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship is the most academically rigorous scholarship program offered for those graduating seniors scoring either 32 on the ACT or 1410 on the SAT, and a 3.50 academic grade point average.Those who are named National Merit Finalists or National Achievement Scholars may qualify without meeting the GPA requirement, but must still meet the ACT/SAT requirement.The scholarship pays tuition, mandatory fees, room and board up to $10,000 per year. Scholarship Deadline to Apply: February 1 Law Enforcement Officers’ Dependents Scholarship (LEO) Other LEO provides a waiver of tuition, fees, and room at any public college, university, or technical institute in Arkansas for dependents and spouses of Arkansas law enforcement officers, some Highway and Transportation Department employees, and other public employees, who were killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. Scholarship Deadline to Apply: July 1 Military Dependents Scholarship (MDS) - Other MDS provides a waiver of tuition, fees, room and board at any public college, university, or technical institute in Arkansas for dependents and spouses of Arkansans who were killed or missing in action or who were prisoners of war or who are totally and permanently disabled. Scholarship Deadline to Apply: July 1 Reimagine Arkansas Workforce Project The Reimagine Arkansas Workforce Project provides funding for qualifying individuals to complete online training at no cost in order to meet workforce needs across the state. Arkansans who are unemployed, underemployed, are new to the workforce and/or have no work history, are a member of an underrepresented population, receive public assistance, reside in rural areas, are a veteran, are the spouse of a veteran, are homeless, are 55 years of age or older, previously incarcerated, have been paroled, or are on probation, are encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply at training.uark.edu/reimagine Single Parent Scholarship - Other Single Parent Scholarships (SPSF) are given to low-income single parents who are pursuing post-secondary education in preparation for skilled employment. Scholarship Funds are administered by affiliate organizations and volunteers in each county of Arkansas. Eligibility criteria and application requirements vary by county.To apply for a scholarship or to get involved, contact the affiliate SPSF serving the county you live in. Disclaimer:The laws, rules, regulations, award amounts, number of awardees, eligibility criteria, funding per program, etc. are subject to change at any point prior to, during or after application through theYOUniversal application.These changes will be based on changes in law or funding provided by the Arkansas General Assembly. It is understood that ADHE is not at fault for any changes that occur to any financial aid program. In addition, awards for all ADHE programs are limited by the availability of funds. Source: Arkansas Division of Higher Education

20 | Career Watch Arkansas

Federal Grants and Financial Aid Source: http://studentaid.ed.gov

Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS Loan) – Parents can borrow a PLUS Loan to help pay your education expenses if you are a dependent undergraduate student enrolled at least half time in an eligible program at an eligible school. PLUS Loans are available through the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program and the Direct Loan Program. Your parents can get either loan, but not both, for you during the same enrollment period. They also must have an acceptable credit history. For a Direct PLUS Loan, your parents must complete a Direct PLUS Loan application and promissory note contained in a single form that you get from your school’s financial aid office. For a FFEL PLUS Loan, your parents must complete and submit a PLUS Loan application available from your school, lender, or your state guaranty agency. After the school completes its portion of the application, it must be sent to a lender for evaluation. Parents must agree to repay the loan within 10 years, beginning 60 days after the funds are fully disbursed. Pell Grant – A Federal Pell Grant, unlike a loan, does not have to be repaid. Pell Grants are awarded usually only to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s or a professional degree. (In some cases, however, a student enrolled in a post-baccalaureate teacher certification program might receive a Pell Grant.) Pell Grants are considered a foundation of federal financial aid, to which aid from other federal and nonfederal sources might be added. Perkins Loan – A Federal Perkins Loan is a low-interest loan for both undergraduate and graduate students with exceptional financial need. Federal Perkins Loans are made through a school’s financial aid office.Your school is your lender, and the loan is made with government funds. You must repay this loan to your school. Stafford Loan – You must fill out a FAFSA. After your FAFSA is processed, your school will review the results and will inform you about your loan eligibility.You also will have to sign a promissory note, a binding legal document that lists the conditions under which you’re borrowing and the terms under which you agree to repay your loan. Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant – Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) are for undergraduates with exceptional financial need. Pell Grant recipients with the lowest EFCs will be the first to get FSEOGs. Just like Pell Grants, FSEOGs don’t have to be paid back. Work-Study – Federal Work-Study (FWS) provides parttime jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program encourages community service work and work related to the recipient’s course of study.

YOUniversal

arkansas financial aid system

COLLEGE for YOU

rkansas residents seeking education beyond high school will now find the scholarship application process more user-friendly than ever before, thanks to the YOUniversal Scholarship Application. By answering a few simple questions about age, grade-point average, ACT or SAT scores, and income level, applicants will be matched with the financial aid programs they may qualify for, along with an estimated amount of financial aid they might expect in an academic year. Log on to scholarships.adhe.edu to fill out your application. Residents still have to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine eligibility for Federal financial aid. Go to www.fafsa.gov to fill out your form. Applicants can begin applying for Federal Student Aid after October 1, 2021, for the 2022-2023 school year.

www.careerwatch.org | 21

Colleges and Universities

ull-time annualized tuition for public institutions is based on Arkansas Division of Higher Education estimates of 15 credit hours, plus mandatory fees per semester, for the 20212022 school year. Full-time annual tuition for private institutions is based on figures from the institution’s website or financial aid office. Some private institutions have set rates for each program offered. Check with the institution for actual tuition and fees.

4-year Public Arkansas State University www.astate.edu 870-972-2100 PO Box 600 State University, AR 72467 Enrollment: 13.106 Tuition: $8,900 Other Locations: Paragould Arkansas Tech University www.atu.edu 844-804-2628 215 West O Street Russellville, AR 72801 Enrollment: 10,829 Tuition: $9,539 Other Locations: Ozark

22 | Career Watch Arkansas

Henderson State University www.hsu.edu 800-228-7333 870-230-5000 1100 Henderson Street Arkadelphia, AR 71999 Enrollment: 3,163 Tuition: $9,450

University of Arkansas at Fayetteville www.uark.edu 479-575-2000 1 University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR 72701 Enrollment: 27,562 Tuition: $9,572

Southern Arkansas University web.saumag.edu 870-235-4000 100 E. University Magnolia, AR 71753 Enrollment: 4,432 Tuition: $9,310

University of Arkansas at Fort Smith www.uafs.edu 479-788-7000 5210 Grand Avenue Fort Smith, AR 72913 Enrollment: 5,887 Tuition: $7,339

Colleges and Universities University of Arkansas at Little Rock www.ualr.edu 501-569-3000 2801 S. University Ave. Little Rock, AR 72204 Enrollment: 8,899 Tuition: $9,529 University of Arkansas at Monticello www.uamont.edu 800-844-1826 870-460-1026 346 University Drive Monticello, AR 71656 Enrollment: 2,645 Tuition: $8,029 Other Locations: Crossett, McGehee University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff www.uapb.edu 870-575-8000 1200 North University Drive Pine Bluff, AR 71601 Enrollment: 2,668 Tuition: $8,064 Other Locations: North Little Rock University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences www.uams.edu 501-686-7000 4301 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72205 Enrollment: 2,907 Tuition: Varies Other Locations: Teaching Centers across the state University of Central Arkansas www.uca.edu 501-450-5000 201 Donaghey Ave. Conway, AR 72035 Enrollment: 10,335 Tuition: $9,563

2-year Public Arkansas Northeastern College www.anc.edu 870-762-1020 2501 South Division St. Blytheville, AR 72315 Enrollment: 1,358 Tuition: $2,930 Other Locations: Burdette, Leachville, Osceola, Paragould Arkansas State University at Beebe www.asub.edu 800-632-9985 501-882-3600 1000 Iowa St. PO Box 1000 Beebe, AR 72012 Enrollment: 2,982 Tuition: $3,660 Other Locations: Heber Springs, Little Rock Air Force Base, Searcy

Arkansas State University Mid-South www.asumidsouth.edu 870-733-6722 2000 W. Broadway West Memphis, AR 72301 Enrollment: 1,203 Tuition: $4,090 Arkansas Tech University-Ozark www.atu.edu/ozark 866-225-2884 1700 Helberg Lane Ozark, AR 72949 Enrollment: 1,974 Tuition: $5,640 Arkansas State University - Three Rivers www.asutr.edu 800-337-5000 One College Circle Malvern, AR 72104 Enrollment: 1,243 Tuition: $4,070

Arkansas State University at Mountain Home www.asumh.edu 870-508-6100 1600 South College St. Mountain Home, AR 72653 Enrollment: 1,271 Tuition: $3,630

Black River Technical College www.blackrivertech.org 870-248-4000 1410 Highway 304 East Pocahontas, AR 72455 Enrollment: 1,350 Tuition: $4,200 Other Locations: Paragould

Arkansas State University at Newport www.asun.edu 870-512-7800 7648 Victory Blvd. Newport, AR 72112 Enrollment: 1,941 Tuition: $3,570 Other Locations: Jonesboro, Marked Tree

Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas www.cccua.edu 800-844-4471 870-584-4471 183 College Drive De Queen, AR 71832 Enrollment: 1,407 Tuition: $3,960 Other Locations: Ashdown, Nashville

www.careerwatch.org | 23

Colleges and Universities East Arkansas Community College www.eacc.edu 870-633-4480 1700 Newcastle Road Forrest City, AR 72335 Enrollment: 934 Tuition: $3,140 Other Locations: Wynne National Park College www.np.edu 501-760-4222 101 College Drive Hot Springs National Park, AR 71913 Enrollment: 2,406 Tuition: $4,500 North Arkansas College www.northark.edu 870-743-3000 1515 Pioneer Drive Harrison, AR 72601 Enrollment: 1,604 Tuition: $3,840 Other Locations: Berryville Northwest Arkansas Community College www.nwacc.edu 479-986-4000 One College Drive Bentonville, AR 72712 Enrollment: 7,411 Tuition: $5,088 Other Locations: Farmington, Fayetteville, Springdale Ozarka College www.ozarka.edu 870-368-2300 218 College Drive Melbourne, AR 72556 Enrollment: 1,033 Tuition: $3,730 Other Locations: Ash Flat, Mammoth Spring, Mountain View 24 | Career Watch Arkansas

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas www.pccua.edu 870-338-6474 1000 Campus Drive Helena-West Helena, AR 72342 Enrollment: 1,092 Tuition: $3,410 Other Locations: Dewitt, Stuttgart

Southern Arkansas University Tech www.sautech.edu 870-574-4500 6415 Spellman Rd. Camden, AR 71711 Enrollment: 769 Tuition: $4,770 Other Locations: Fordyce, Magnolia

UA – Pulaski Tech www.uaptc.edu 501-812-2200 3000 West Scenic Drive North Little Rock, AR 72118 Enrollment: 4,803 Tuition: $5,670 Other Locations: Benton, Bauxite, Little Rock

University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology Crossett www.uamont.edu 870-364-6414 1326 Highway 52 West Crossett, AR 71635 Tuition: $3,524

UA – Rich Mountain www.uarichmountain.edu 479-394-7622 1100 College Drive Mena, AR 71953 Enrollment: 798 Tuition: $4,470 Other Locations: Montgomery County, Waldron South Arkansas Community College www.southark.edu 870-862-8131 300 South West Avenue El Dorado, AR 71730 Enrollment: 1,201 Tuition: $3,810 Southeast Arkansas College www.seark.edu 870-543-5900 1900 Hazel Street Pine Bluff, AR 71603 Enrollment: 1,102 Tuition: $3,850

University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology McGehee www.uamont.edu 870-222-5360 1609 East Ash Street McGehee, AR 71654 Tuition: $3,524 University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville www.uaccb.edu 870-612-2000 PO Box 3350 Batesville, AR 72503 Enrollment: 1,233 Tuition: $3,555 University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton www.uaccm.edu 800-264-1094 1537 University Blvd. Morrilton, AR 72110 Enrollment: 1,836 Tuition: $4,320

Colleges and Universities University of Arkansas Hope • Texarkana www.uaht.edu 870-777-5722 2500 South Main Hope, AR 71802 Enrollment: 1,261 Tuition: $3,400

Harding University www.harding.edu 501-279-4000 915 E. Market Ave. Searcy, AR 72149 Enrollment: 4,579 Tuition: $22,230 Other Locations: Rogers, North Little Rock

Private

Hendrix College www.hendrix.edu 800-277-9017 501-329-6811 1600 Washington Ave Conway, AR 72032 Enrollment: N/A Tuition: $33,350

Arkansas Baptist College www.arkansasbaptist.edu 877-643-5390 1621 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Little Rock, AR 72202 Enrollment: 432 Tuition: $11,250 Arkansas Colleges of Health Education www.acheedu.org 479-308-2243 7000 Chad Colley Blvd. Fort Smith, AR 72916 Enrollment: 678 Tuition: Varies Central Baptist College www.cbc.edu 501-329-6872 1501 College Avenue Conway, AR 72034 Enrollment: 631 Tuition: $18,600 Other Locations: Camp Robinson Crowley's Ridge College www.crc.edu 870-236-6901 100 College Drive Paragould, AR 72450 Enrollment: 192 Tuition: $15,250

John Brown University www.jbu.edu 479-524-9500 2000 West University Street Siloam Springs, AR 72761 Enrollment: 2,278 Tuition: $28,924 Other Locations: Fort Smith, Little Rock, Rogers Lyon College www.lyon.edu 870-307-7000 2300 Highland Road Batesville, AR 72501 Enrollment: 661 Tuition: $30,414 Ouachita Baptist University www.obu.edu 870-245-5000 410 Ouachita St. Arkadelphia, AR 71998 Enrollment: 1,705 Tuition: $30,800

Ecclesia College www.ecollege.edu 479-248-7236 9653 Nations Drive Springdale, AR 72762 Enrollment: N/A Tuition: $16,100 Philander Smith College www.philander.edu 501-375-9845 900 West Daisy L Gaston Bates Drive Little Rock, AR 72202 Enrollment: 799 Tuition: $12,864 Shorter College www.shortercollege.edu 501-374-6305 604 Locust Street North Little Rock, AR 72114 Enrollment: 546 Tuition: $5,148 University of the Ozarks www.ozarks.edu 800-264-8636 415 N. College Avenue Clarksville, AR 72830 Enrollment: N/A Tuition: $25,950 Williams Baptist University www.williamsbu.edu 870-886-6741 60 W Fulbright Avenue Walnut Ridge, AR 72476 Enrollment: 614 Tuition: $18,500

Technical Northwest Technical Institute www.nwti.edu 479-751-8824 709 South Old Missouri Road Springdale, AR 72764 Enrollment: 215 Tuition: Varies www.careerwatch.org | 25

So You Wanna Be A... Not sure what you want to do with your life? Well, this is the place to start looking.

The following section is packed with occupations that can be found all over the state in just about every field imaginable. It also will tell you what type of education you will need to get those jobs, how many positions are available, and, of course, how much you can make doing them! Now, not all the occupations are listed here, as there are more than 800 of them. If you would like to know more about any occupation, or one that is not listed here, go to www.discover.arkansas.gov and click on the “Occupation” link.

2021-2022 Occupations and Careers Education Required - Headings above tables

This table is categorized by the education typically required by workers to become fully qualified in the occupation. There may be other training and educational alternatives than those listed. Doctoral or professional degree – Requires at least three years of full-time academic study beyond a bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree – Requires one or two years of full-time academic study beyond a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s degree – Requires four or five years of full-time academic study. Associate degree – Requires at least two years of full-time academic study. Postsecondary non-degree award – Programs last a few weeks to more than a year; leads to a certificate or other award. Some college, no degree – Requires the completion of a high school diploma or equivalent plus the completion of one or more postsecondary courses that do not result in a degree or award. High school diploma or equivalent – Requires the completion of high school or an equivalent program resulting in the award of a high school diploma or an equivalent, such as a GED. No formal education – Signifies that a formal credential issued by an educational institution, such as a high school diploma or postsecondary certificate, is not typically needed for entry into the occupation.

Occupation

This column provides the title of 26 | Career Watch Arkansas

the occupation. The occupations are listed in alphabetical order by Standard Occupational Classification Titles. Keep in mind the work you actually do will depend on your employer, training, and experience. For more information on the individual occupations including occupation descriptions, visit https://www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/ Careers/Occupations/occupation-profile. aspx.

Estimated Arkansas Workers and Job Outlook

The Estimated 2020 Arkansas Workers column shows an estimate of the number of workers estimated in the occupation in Arkansas. The Job Outlook column shows an estimate of the rate of growth for the occupation in Arkansas. Above average is more than 5 percent, average is between 2 and 5 percent, below average is between 0 and 2 percent and decline is below 0 percent. AA – Above Average A – Average BA – Below Average D – Decline The Arkansas Labor Market Information Section bases both the growth rate and annual openings data on occupational projections.

Mean Annual Wage

This column shows an estimated mean annual salary in Arkansas for the occupation. This data is based on a semiannual wage survey conducted by the Arkansas Labor Market Information Section. The actual pay for a job may vary depending on the geographic area, qualifications of the employee, and the pay scale of the employer. NA – Not Available

Associate Degree Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Industrial Engineering Technicians

522

$56,762

Agricultural and Food Science Technicians

485

$42,540

Legal Support Workers, All Other

123

$58,614

Architectural and Civil Drafters

572

$53,088

Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other

545

$49,296

Broadcast Technicians

259

$45,360

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists

332

$59,240

Calibration and Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other

387

$62,427

Mechanical Drafters

423

$50,787

Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians

553

$53,590

Mechanical Engineering Technicians

101

$58,030

Chemical Technicians

666

$41,835

Medical Equipment Repairers

484

$43,315

Civil Engineering Technicians

265

$53,404

Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Directors

418

$45,559

Computer Network Support Specialists

1,674

$52,778

Nuclear Medicine Technologists

215

$70,309

Dental Hygienists

1,557

$65,732

Occupational Therapy Assistants

342

$67,228

Desktop Publishers

$53,674

Paralegals and Legal Assistants

2,091

$40,409

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

430

$64,645

Physical Therapist Assistants

1,364

$60,122

Dietetic Technicians

107

$27,585

Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education

5,090

$32,929

Drafters, All Other

$50,147

Radiation Therapists

153

$73,454

Electrical and Electronics Drafters

120

$67,136

Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers

$50,864

Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians

527

$64,324

Radiologic Technologists

2,357

$52,269

Embalmers

100

$37,660

Respiratory Therapists

1,609

$56,404

Environmental Engineering Technicians

232

$53,130

Veterinary Technologists and Technicians

452

$32,416

Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health

$43,080

Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers

725

$47,359

Forest and Conservation Technicians

318

$45,798

Funeral Home Managers

304

$85,763

Geological and Hydrologic Technicians

N/A

Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping

837

$39,966

Occupations

www.careerwatch.org | 27

Bachelor's Degree Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Child, Family, and School Social Workers

1,512

$42,441

Accountants and Auditors

8,918

$69,660

Civil Engineers

1,494

$82,300

Administrative Services and Facilities Managers

1,916

$92,538

Clergy

11,962

$54,702

Adult Basic and Secondary Education and Literacy Teachers and Instructors

293

$44,020

Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians

2,464

$45,322

Advertising and Promotions Managers

115

$116,083

Coaches and Scouts

1,579

$52,246

Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers

193

$106,626

Commercial and Industrial Designers

144

$74,371

Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators

$43,474

Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other

431

$33,827

Architects, Except Landscape and Naval

820

$72,515

Compensation and Benefits Managers

153

$113,943

Architectural and Engineering Managers

910

$134,908

Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists

686

$57,754

Art Directors

245

$70,975

Compliance Officers

2,760

$65,937

Atmospheric and Space Scientists

$98,259

Computer and Information Systems Managers

2,748

$114,840

Biological Scientists, All Other

279

$77,918

Computer Hardware Engineers

275

$111,275

Biological Technicians

368

$55,444

Computer Network Architects

1,017

$88,457

Biomedical Engineers

$68,520

Computer Occupations, All Other

974

$71,365

Budget Analysts

570

$50,637

Computer Programmers

1,856

$85,362

3,582

$78,573

Computer Systems Analysts

3,605

$73,183

Camera Operators, Television,Video, and Motion Picture

121

$49,547

Conservation Scientists

171

$66,239

Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School

$50,250

Construction Managers

3,550

$85,463

Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School

1,179

$55,017

Cost Estimators

1,300

$58,236

Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

105

$55,935

Credit Analysts

309

$57,916

Chemical Engineers

142

$91,173

Credit Counselors

$53,277

Chemists

315

$79,380

Database Administrators and Architects

649

$80,144

3,236

$136,635

Dietitians and Nutritionists

622

$61,452

Occupations

Buyers and Purchasing Agents

Chief Executives

28 | Career Watch Arkansas

Bachelor's Degree Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

General and Operations Managers

1,193

$44,189

Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers

Editors

397

$46,510

Graphic Designers

Education Administrators, All Other

647

$68,244

Education Administrators, Preschool and Childcare Center/Program

674

Education, Training, and Library Workers, All Other

166

Electrical Engineers Electronics Engineers, Except Computer

Occupations

21,963

$91,484

126

$67,643

1,584

$44,960

Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors

108

$84,089

$44,216

Health Educators

228

$49,032

$42,454

Human Resources Managers

1,135

$111,134

985

$86,045

Human Resources Specialists

4,199

$57,985

475

$89,572

Industrial Engineers

1,891

$84,727

Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education

13,335

$49,380

Industrial Production Managers

2,012

$103,680

Emergency Management Directors

149

$48,877

Information Security Analysts

816

$89,267

Engineers, All Other

587

$84,036

Insurance Underwriters

2,361

$61,412

Environmental Engineers

106

$75,413

Interior Designers

426

$73,856

Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health

125

$71,018

Interpreters and Translators

319

$44,883

Exercise Physiologists

$64,820

Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education

1,534

$48,602

Fashion Designers

N/A

Labor Relations Specialists

325

$43,651

Film and Video Editors

$56,435

Landscape Architects

104

$85,553

2,027

$78,880

Legislators

1,350

$24,088

Financial Examiners

371

$68,923

Librarians and Media Collections Specialists

1,519

$52,517

Financial Managers

5,515

$112,181

Loan Officers

2,761

$75,433

Food Scientists and Technologists

261

$70,258

Logisticians

1,706

$72,406

Forensic Science Technicians

161

$44,530

Management Analysts

6,973

$65,552

Foresters

238

$53,931

Managers, All Other

110

N/A

1,093

$50,143

Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists

4,852

$68,728

Directors, Religious Activities and Education

Financial and Investment Analysts, Financial Risk Specialists, and Financial Specialists, All Other

Fundraisers

www.careerwatch.org | 29

Bachelor's Degree Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Proofreaders and Copy Markers

$39,139

Marketing Managers

1,398

$139,950

Property Appraisers and Assessors

620

$46,194

Materials Engineers

218

$75,900

Public Relations and Fundraising Managers

421

$133,557

Materials Scientists

N/A

1,428

$70,419

Mechanical Engineers

1,175

$73,342

Purchasing Managers

660

$125,210

Medical and Health Services Managers

6,050

$89,672

Radio and Television Announcers

386

$37,522

Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners

892

$50,937

Recreational Therapists

$54,602

Microbiologists

245

$68,206

Registered Nurses

26,495

$63,634

6,615

$51,359

Religious Workers, All Other

3,732

N/A

Multimedia Artists and Animators

170

$78,080

Sales Engineers

227

$108,276

Museum Technicians and Conservators

$38,951

Sales Managers

2,177

$137,764

1,819

N/A

Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products

1,988

$78,113

247

$125,794

Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

12,244

$52,538

2,298

$68,390

Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents

1,710

$75,066

News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists

347

$46,813

Set and Exhibit Designers

$43,494

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists

689

$65,540

Social and Community Service Managers

1,741

$55,448

Operations Research Analysts

414

$62,848

Social Science Research Assistants

$48,171

Personal Financial Advisors

1,128

$91,895

Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other

189

$73,875

Personal Service Managers; Entertainment & Recreation Managers, Except Gambling; and Managers, All Other

8,538

$90,003

Social Workers, All Other

1,223

$50,613

Physical Scientists, All Other

$77,405

Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

5,775

$87,706

Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists

924

$40,289

Soil and Plant Scientists

$73,802

Producers and Directors

557

$52,702

Special Education Teachers, All Other

138

$42,037

8,964

$65,502

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School

1,327

$50,156

Occupations

Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

Music Directors and Composers

Natural Sciences Managers Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Project Management Specialists and Business Operations Specialists, All Other

30 | Career Watch Arkansas

Public Relations Specialists

Bachelor's Degree Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Special Education Teachers, Middle School

926

$52,204

Special Education Teachers, Preschool

375

$46,143

Special Education Teachers, Secondary School

1,230

$50,921

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors

2,093

$55,364

Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists

Substitute Teachers, Short-Term

3,903

$27,083

Surveyors

364

Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents

481

Teachers and Instructors, All Other

Occupations

Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary

1,713

$177,120

Business Teachers, Postsecondary

731

$87,444

Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary

249

$73,293

Chiropractors

374

$60,471

1,114

$68,362

Communications Teachers, Postsecondary

503

$62,405

$56,187

Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary

413

$82,594

$58,602

Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary

103

$52,547

N/A

Dentists, All Other Specialists

$201,590

Teachers and Instructors, All Other, Except Substitute Teachers

1,879

$33,904

Dentists, General

969

$163,650

Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary

3,433

$23,224

Economics Teachers, Postsecondary

101

$99,439

Technical Writers

229

$62,145

Education Teachers, Postsecondary

673

$50,742

Therapists, All Other

202

$45,242

Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary

364

$97,741

Training and Development Managers

289

$100,988

English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

793

$61,158

Training and Development Specialists

2,669

$50,100

Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary

N/A

877

$48,400

1,499

$209,879

2,596

$43,140

Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

210

$57,561

General Internal Medicine Physicians

143

$148,332

Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

784

$71,714

History Teachers, Postsecondary

347

$67,444

Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates

241

$157,183

Judicial Law Clerks

$63,947

Vocational Education Teachers, Postsecondary Writers and Authors

Doctoral or Professional Degree Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers

241

$76,341

Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary

244

$86,271

Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary

$88,164

Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary

107

$79,888

Audiologists

208

$114,973

Family Medicine Physicians

www.careerwatch.org | 31

Doctoral or Professional Degree Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary

111

$68,075

108

$101,028

Surgeons, Except Ophthalmologists

184

$227,235

4,010

$94,925

Veterinarians

564

$110,479

Library Science Teachers, Postsecondary

$67,098

Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders

433

$32,487

Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary

703

$64,547

1,099

$47,979

Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists

152

$82,892

Aircraft Service Attendants and Transportation Workers, All Other

110

$30,468

Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary

768

$60,790

Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers

159

$56,708

Obstetricians and Gynecologists

$258,937

Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians

N/A

Optometrists

386

$108,746

Animal Control Workers

171

$30,322

Pediatricians, General

109

$198,712

Animal Trainers

1,036

$38,460

3,169

$120,086

Automotive Body and Related Repairers

1,530

$41,426

$75,620

Baggage Porters and Bellhops

146

$23,812

Physical Therapists

2,260

$84,405

Bailiffs

$34,937

Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric

3,478

$209,484

Bill and Account Collectors

2,500

$33,199

Physics Teachers, Postsecondary

116

$80,417

Billing and Posting Clerks

3,759

$34,578

Podiatrists

$123,761

Boilermakers

$73,123

Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary

121

$71,929

Brickmasons and Blockmasons

528

$44,827

1,007

$65,391

Bridge and Lock Tenders

$50,413

Psychiatrists

171

$154,403

Brokerage Clerks

136

$56,151

Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary

310

$71,184

3,848

$42,586

Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary

142

$67,638

466

$33,444

Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other

284

$68,814

1,287

$31,165

Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary

322

$66,307

808

$47,386

Occupations

Law Teachers, Postsecondary

Lawyers

Pharmacists Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary

Postsecondary Teachers, All Other

32 | Career Watch Arkansas

High School Diploma Advertising Sales Agents

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity

Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters

Cargo and Freight Agents

High School Diploma Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks

124

$42,745

5,367

$40,264

Crematory Operators and Personal Care and Service Workers, All Other

381

$23,454

410

$49,266

Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

627

$32,399

1,219

$50,222

Customer Service Representatives

16,752

$34,727

222

$48,386

Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

927

$38,874

Childcare Workers

11,503

$23,045

Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

1,958

$35,920

Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators

2,001

$62,361

Data Entry Keyers

1,464

$31,387

171

$35,235

Dental Laboratory Technicians

364

$41,556

1,484

$35,713

Detectives and Criminal Investigators

487

$67,542

Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers

209

$42,456

Dispatchers,ExceptPolice,Fire,andAmbulance

2,189

$37,775

Coin,Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers

120

$32,404

Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

$35,489

Commercial Pilots

333

$118,981

Driver/Sales Workers

3,306

$31,488

Community Health Workers

347

$45,813

Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas; and Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters

471

$44,407

1,428

$38,916

Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers

168

$46,170

Concierges

$29,521

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers

2,200

$64,746

Construction and Building Inspectors

947

$50,184

Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except CoilWinders,Tapers, and Finishers

1,620

$41,016

Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door

421

$61,294

Electricians

6,160

$43,302

Cooling and Freezing Equipment Operators and Tenders

337

$37,774

Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs

1,607

$39,519

Correctional Officers and Jailers

5,799

$35,617

Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining

319

$40,501

Correspondence Clerks

N/A

Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants

2,245

$53,602

Couriers and Messengers

709

$27,792

Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

1,208

$38,126

1,058

$32,685

Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

1,365

$40,894

766

$46,466

Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians

826

$43,264

Occupations

Carpenters

Chefs and Head Cooks Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders Chemical Plant and System Operators

Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators

Court, Municipal, and License Clerks

Crane and Tower Operators

www.careerwatch.org | 33

High School Diploma Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Foundry Mold and Coremakers

$33,373

54,168

$75,824

Funeral Attendants

296

$23,812

Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators

414

$36,422

Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders

380

$42,088

File Clerks

507

$30,673

Gas Plant Operators

171

$64,899

First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers

5,233

$56,898

Glaziers

386

$35,912

First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers

537

$49,566

Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

735

$36,836

First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers

747

$58,616

Hazardous Materials Removal Workers

150

$40,350

First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers

12,486

$30,827

Healthcare Support Workers, All Other

684

$37,708

First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers

2,485

$32,719

Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

293

$43,005

First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers

1,740

$45,735

Helpers--Electricians

441

$36,370

First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers

6,157

$62,087

Helpers--Extraction Workers

$29,647

First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers

4,023

$79,739

Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers

1,316

$28,345

First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers

14,497

$51,111

Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

490

$30,853

First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives

1,801

$60,487

Helpers--Production Workers

7,781

$29,520

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers

8,926

$58,109

Highway Maintenance Workers

3,329

$31,182

First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers

15,563

$39,982

Home Appliance Repairers

164

$29,586

FirstLine Supervisors of Transportation & Material Moving Workers, Exc Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor

4,546

$51,292

Home Health and Personal Care Aides

22,842

$23,525

Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors

1,431

$36,194

Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks

2,510

$23,402

415

$27,588

Industrial Machinery Mechanics

6,967

$50,564

2,109

$31,296

Information and Record Clerks, All Other

1,577

$35,937

324

$34,924

Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

6,582

$37,178

2,636

$47,862

Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other

1,523

$42,892

198

$36,490

Insulation Workers, Mechanical

166

$44,405

Occupations Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers

Floral Designers

Food Batchmakers Food Cooking Machine Operators and Tenders Food Service Managers Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists

34 | Career Watch Arkansas

High School Diploma Occupations

Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Medical Secretaries

Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks

5,615

$37,996

Insurance Sales Agents

10,477

Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan

3,065

Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers

2,522

$35,820

Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other

168

$46,249

$70,062

Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders

329

$44,943

$30,734

Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

$46,500

310

$44,839

Millwrights

854

$50,166

Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

464

$42,254

Miscellaneous Assemblers and Fabricators

13,133

$32,431

Legal Secretaries

853

$35,491

Miscellaneous Construction and Related Workers

169

$35,456

Library Assistants, Clerical

620

$25,567

Miscellaneous First-Line Supervisors, Protective ServiceWorkers

726

$61,224

Light Truck or Delivery Services Drivers

9,529

$33,597

Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

1,505

$36,583

Loan Interviewers and Clerks

2,130

$40,339

Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines

1,391

$48,928

Locker Room, Coatroom, and Dressing Room Attendants

119

$24,529

Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic

313

$35,001

Locksmiths and Safe Repairers

141

$43,246

Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

1,681

$33,094

Lodging Managers

994

$47,496

Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians

313

$33,886

Log Graders and Scalers

329

$39,434

Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

1,564

$35,390

1,847

$43,189

New Accounts Clerks

574

$32,673

844

$34,320

Nonfarm Animal Caretakers

2,841

$26,532

2,477

$45,562

Occupational Health and Safety Technicians

227

$44,040

Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service

393

$30,937

Office and Administrative Support Workers, All Other

2,310

$32,199

Maintenance and Repair Workers, General

11,831

$34,938

Office Clerks, General

28,538

$32,862

Maintenance Workers, Machinery

853

$41,832

Office Machine Operators, Except Computer

243

$26,209

Mechanical Door Repairers

542

$33,087

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators

3,999

$38,090

Medical Appliance Technicians

$42,772

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians

235

$28,970

Medical Equipment Preparers

318

$33,195

Opticians, Dispensing

694

$38,666

Logging Equipment Operators

Logging Workers, All Other

Machinists

www.careerwatch.org | 35

High School Diploma Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Power Plant Operators

260

$70,430

Orderlies

572

$29,516

Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All Other

186

$50,337

Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics

401

$32,791

Print Binding and Finishing Workers

329

$26,918

Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders

4,255

$33,335

Printing Press Operators

2,258

$35,229

Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

2,308

$41,683

Private Detectives and Investigators

162

$77,984

Parking Enforcement Workers

$27,713

Procurement Clerks

865

$41,590

Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators

1,049

$33,647

Production Workers, All Other

2,711

$29,765

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks

1,230

$41,566

Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks

2,819

$52,775

113

N/A

Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers

2,472

$56,344

1,160

$41,688

Psychiatric Aides

311

N/A

Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators,Vegetation

342

$31,501

Rail Car Repairers

272

$69,848

Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers

295

$67,276

Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers

158

$46,099

Pharmacy Aides

223

$26,478

Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers

194

$58,255

4,799

$31,012

Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators

243

$48,616

Photographers

915

$42,531

Real Estate Brokers

666

$52,112

Plating and Coating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

303

$32,325

Real Estate Sales Agents

2,042

$73,767

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

3,294

$43,036

Receptionists and Information Clerks

11,144

$28,715

Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers

6,297

$42,526

Recreation Workers

2,206

$26,235

989

$30,737

Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians

156

$45,618

Postal Service Clerks

1,082

$48,620

Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks

276

$55,164

Postal Service Mail Carriers

3,172

$52,590

ResidentialAdvisors

1,144

$28,198

Postmasters and Mail Superintendents

186

$82,469

Riggers

101

$44,723

Power Distributors and Dispatchers

304

$88,271

Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

831

$42,937

Occupations

Personal Care Aides

Pest Control Workers

Pharmacy Technicians

Police, Fire, and Ambulance Dispatchers

36 | Career Watch Arkansas

High School Diploma Occupations

Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Textile Winding, Twisting, and Drawing Out Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

279

N/A

Sales Representatives of Services, Except Advertising, Insurance, Financial Services, and Travel

4,935

$56,689

Textile, Apparel, and Furnishings Workers, All Other

$30,446

Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products

12,633

$68,772

Tire Repairers and Changers

1,242

$30,379

Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood

1,308

$30,782

Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers

525

$43,364

SchoolBusMonitorsandProtectiveServiceWorkers, AllOther

714

$31,275

Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners

171

$40,895

Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive

15,393

$31,992

Tour and Travel Guides

204

$27,816

743

$40,475

Traffic Technicians

$48,187

Security Guards

6,648

$30,151

Transportation Attendants, Except Flight Attendants

145

$29,055

Self-Enrichment Education Teachers

1,254

$37,575

Transportation Inspectors

185

$77,348

629

$36,865

Transportation Security Screeners

172

$40,881

Sheet Metal Workers

1,250

$39,177

Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers

1,228

$103,865

Shipping, Receiving, and Traffic Clerks

5,010

$34,315

Travel Agents

239

$46,938

Social and Human Service Assistants

4,436

$31,570

Tree Trimmers and Pruners

432

$37,285

477

$48,937

Upholsterers

150

$32,220

19,217

$27,957

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

980

$29,042

564

$40,311

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators

2,437

$36,821

1,016

$36,200

Weighers, Measurers, Checkers, and Samplers, Recordkeeping

951

$34,549

Surveying and Mapping Technicians

579

$43,092

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers

5,764

$39,550

Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service

598

$29,138

Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

758

$37,791

Tax Preparers

647

$32,309

Wellhead Pumpers

N/A

Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers

1,213

$51,096

Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing

1,148

$30,621

Tellers

5,636

$28,301

$24,553

Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers

Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators Stockers and Order Fillers

Structural Iron and Steel Workers

Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters

Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

www.careerwatch.org | 37

Master's Degree Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Acupuncturists and Healthcare Diagnosing or Treating Practitioners, All Other

322

$67,634

Anthropologists and Archeologists

$60,297

Archivists

$61,113

Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary

878

$63,409

Computer and Information Research Scientists

$125,121

Occupations

Counselors, All Other

150

$37,777

Curators

$54,215

Economists

102

$78,178

Education Administrators, Elementary and Secondary School

2,506

$81,652

Education Administrators, Postsecondary

1,606

$114,976

Educational, Guidance, School, and Vocational Counselors

2,250

$55,876

Epidemiologists

$67,117

Farm and Home Management Advisors

207

$52,651

Healthcare Social Workers

1,366

$53,438

Home Economics Teachers, Postsecondary

$41,708

Instructional Coordinators

1,656

$62,049

125

$45,678

1,186

$41,126

Nurse Anesthetists

371

$167,024

Nurse Practitioners

2,714

$106,208

Occupational Therapists

1,310

$82,648

535

$101,750

Marriage and Family Therapists Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers

Physician Assistants

38 | Career Watch Arkansas

Psychologists, All Other

132

$93,192

Rehabilitation Counselors

658

$37,570

2,108

$73,518

Statisticians

392

$83,278

Urban and Regional Planners

112

$59,612

Speech-Language Pathologists

No Formal Education Agricultural Equipment Operators

1,155

$29,990

334

$20,500

1,846

$26,780

266

$24,950

Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants

1,520

$21,200

Bakers

1,428

$30,350

Bartenders

1,944

$44,470

Building Cleaning Workers, All Other

2,161

$22,310

Butchers and Meat Cutters

881

$36,950

Carpet Installers

$25,710

Cashiers

28,567

$20,780

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers

1,948

$29,980

Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment

4,951

$42,420

Construction Laborers

8,102

$29,350

Continuous Mining Machine Operators

177

$21,920

Conveyor Operators and Tenders

391

$22,250

3,930

$23,590

Agricultural Workers, All Other

Amusement and Recreation Attendants

Athletes and Sports Competitors

Cooks, Fast Food

No Formal Education Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand

839

$32,576

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria

7,332

$23,610

Grounds Maintenance Workers, All Other

226

N/A

Cooks, Restaurant

10,870

$24,869

Helpers, Construction Trades, All Other

526

$29,485

565

$25,171

Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters

277

$31,658

Counter and Rental Clerks

4,599

$30,303

Helpers--Carpenters

241

$31,825

Cutters and Trimmers, Hand

$38,525

Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons

$29,257

Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas

$43,159

Helpers--Roofers

$29,668

Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers

2,229

$22,764

Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop

2,177

$22,351

Dishwashers

3,324

$22,618

Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators

8,367

$35,399

Door-to-Door Sales Workers, News and Street Vendors, and Related Workers

221

N/A

Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall

225

$37,494

Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers

440

$36,607

Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

20,026

$26,675

Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse

5,873

$23,943

Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand

21,694

$28,915

Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals

4,127

$29,403

Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers

8,247

$27,427

Fast Food and Counter Workers

40,394

$22,207

Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers

1,925

$23,579

Fence Erectors

295

$31,083

Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers

577

$22,865

Fishing and Hunting Workers

N/A

Machine Feeders and Offbearers

1,937

$29,875

Floor Sanders and Finishers

289

$37,053

Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

11,612

$23,364

Food and Tobacco Roasting, Baking, and Drying Machine Operators and Tenders

$32,265

Material Moving Workers, All Other

111

$32,251

Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other

289

$25,134

Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers

8,796

$27,988

Food Preparation Workers

3,966

$24,085

Miscellaneous Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers

N/A

Food Processing Workers, All Other

4,362

$28,240

Motor Vehicle Operators, All Other

218

$35,397

976

$23,144

Musicians and Singers

1,298

N/A

1,492

$28,686

Packers and Packagers, Hand

5,584

$28,854

Occupations

Cooks, Short Order

Food Servers, Nonrestaurant Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products

www.careerwatch.org | 39

No Formal Education Occupations

Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics

6,237

$40,477

Painters, Construction and Maintenance

1,857

$38,383

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels

$75,724

Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers

$42,634

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

103

$63,067

Parking Lot Attendants

358

$31,349

Cooks, Private Household

210

N/A

9,921

$24,038

Dental Assistants

2,756

$36,484

Pipelayers

365

$37,299

Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment

165

$75,316

Pressers, Textile, Garment, and Related Materials

276

$24,555

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment

531

$66,682

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors

2,258

$31,642

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay

232

$74,877

Retail Salespersons

38,185

$28,119

Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment Installers and Repairers

569

$32,878

Rock Splitters, Quarry

$33,937

Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics

1,833

$34,630

Roofers

754

$35,574

Fire Inspectors and Investigators

$65,245

Roustabouts, Oil and Gas

289

$40,518

Firefighters

2,532

$39,738

Service Unit Operators, Oil, Gas, and Mining

732

$50,746

First-Line Supervisors of Fire Fighting and Prevention Workers

1,085

$59,616

Sewing Machine Operators

939

$28,461

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

3,350

$25,425

1,215

$28,347

Health Information Technologists, Medical Registrars, Surgical Assistants, & Healthcare Practitioners, AO

563

$44,289

Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers

$38,465

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

3,094

$41,720

Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders

$42,622

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

39,567

$46,627

2,373

$25,758

Library Technicians

573

$26,641

297

$34,482

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses

12,209

$41,758

Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers

1,058

$23,361

Manicurists and Pedicurists

155

$26,798

Waiters and Waitresses

19,175

$22,213

Massage Therapists

671

$46,016

814

$52,804

Medical Assistants

3,986

$31,522

Medical Dosimetrists, Medical Records Specialists, and Health Technologists and Technicians,All Other

2,934

$41,367

Passenger Vehicle Drivers, Except Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity

Slaughterers and Meat Packers

Telemarketers

Tile and Marble Setters

Postsecondary non-degree Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

Audio and Video Equipment Technicians

40 | Career Watch Arkansas

219

$35,688

Postsecondary non-degree Est.2020 Arkansas Workers

Job Outlook

Mean Annual Wage

Medical Transcriptionists

543

$33,794

Motorcycle Mechanics

248

$32,627

18,760

$26,544

Ophthalmic Medical Technicians

457

$35,010

Phlebotomists

889

$31,122

Prepress Technicians and Workers

166

$36,682

Psychiatric Technicians

834

$29,695

Skincare Specialists

261

$31,677

Surgical Technologists

1,346

$42,393

Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers

1,789

$48,207

539

$48,599

Occupations

Nursing Assistants

Tool and Die Makers

for more info on jobs, wages, and more visit

Some College, No Degree Actors

N/A

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

13,722

$36,893

Computer User Support Specialists

3,846

$43,058

Computer,Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers

1,121

$40,397

543

$31,485

11,226

$23,126

Order Clerks

Teaching Assistants, Except Postsecondary

www.careerwatch.org | 41

Thoughts for the Road Applications

Your resume has caught the attention of a perspective employer, and you have an interview.

What's the next step? Here are a few tips to help you ace the interview.

Wear the Right Outfit.

Check with the HR department for the company’s dress code. Wear clean, pressed, conservative clothes in neutral colors. Avoid excessive make-up and jewelry. Have nails and hair neat, clean, and trimmed. Don’t overdo you favorite perfume or cologne.

Be professional. Some employers do not require a resume or cover letter. Ask the potential employer what they require to apply for the position. Many times this just includes a job application.

Tips for completing an application • • • • • •

• • •

•

Never use abbreviations or slang. Avoid stating “see resume.” Keep your Personal Data Record available to avoid making errors. For paper applications, print clearly in black ink. Complete the entire document, using “N/A” (not applicable) only when necessary. Avoid negative information, if possible. Be truthful and positive when sensitive information is unavoidable. Never give false information. Due to limited space, showcase the skills and experience best suited to the job. Be sure to include the correct job title on the application. If you have gaps in your employment history, list positive ways you spent the time while unemployed. When asked about the salary requirements, respond, “negotiable.” — Information courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services Job Seeker’s Guide

Know the name, title and the pronunciation of the interviewer’s name. Give a firm handshake and maintain good eye contact. Don’t talk too much about your personal life and don’t badmouth former employers.

Be On Time.

Know where you are going, allowing time for traffic and parking. Show up 10 to 15 minutes early; arriving late to the interview says a great deal about you. Keep your cell phone charged and have the interviewer’s number handy in case circumstances are beyond your control, but turn it off before the interview.

Send a Thank You Note.

Here’s a chance to make a final impression on the interviewer. You may find it is much appreciated and remembered.

Don't let the interviewer ask all the questions. In fact, they expect you to ask some! Have questions prepared to learn more about the position and the company, such as: • How soon are you looking to fill this position? • What is the typical career path for this job? • What are some of the biggest challenges facing this position, this department, or this organization? • What is an average day on this job like? • How would you describe the ideal candidate? • What kind of training and/or professional development programs do you have?

re you looking for more great careerrelated content? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Our Discover Arkansas website has plenty of helpful additional publications aside from just the Career Watch Arkansas magazine. One of these publications is called Career Watch On The Go. Career Watch On The Go is a helpful brochure that one can glance through just before an interview to remember the basics, and help him or her land that job!

www.discover.arkansas.gov

42 | Career Watch Arkansas

www.careerwatch.org | 43

Arkansas manufacturers find silver lining in difficult year Information courtesy of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission Although 2020 brought many hardships and tragedy upon most of the world,Arkansas was still able to find success via the expansion and opening by many companies, many particularly focused on manufacturing. In fact, according to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, the companies listed below accounted to create a projected 3,405 jobs with the average wage of those occupations being $20.87 per hour.The AEDC projected the investment of these companies to be $962,763,859 for the year with a total projected payroll of $1,333,835,603 created in 2020 alone. Gerber Products Company, a subsidiary of Nestle S.A., is adding a product line at its manufacturing facility in Fort Smith.As a part of this expansion, Gerber is generating up to 50 full-time jobs and investing $30 million for new food manufacturing and food processing equipment and machinery and infrastructure improvements at the site. Koppers, a global provider of treated wood products, announced that it plans to invest a minimum of $23 million and increase the number of workers at its North Little Rock facility over the next two years. Fiocchi of America, the United States subsidiary of Italy-based Fiocchi Group, today announced plans to establish a new manufacturing facility in Little Rock. Fiocchi, a global leader in small-caliber ammunition, will invest $15 million to establish a fully independent industrial platform in the U.S. SCA Pharma, an FDA-registered outsourcing facility, announced that it will expand its operations in Little Rock. SCA will be investing more than $10 million and will create the opportunity to double

44 | Career Watch Arkansas

its current Little Rock workforce of 180 people. Nice-Pak, a pioneer and the leading global producer of wet wipes, announced plans to expand its manufacturing capacity at the company’s Jonesboro facility, increasing employment by adding more than 300 associates by the end of 2021. Nice-Pak’s project entailed multiple upgrades, including the extension of existing lines and the addition of a new manufacturing line that will create 176 new jobs. Emerson will open a new facility in Ash Flat where it plans to invest $35 million and create approximately 245 new jobs within four years. State and local officials joined Carvana for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 5 to mark the grand opening of the company’s new vehicle inspection and distribution center in West Memphis. Carvana first announced plans to construct the West Memphis inspection center in September 2019.The company hosted hiring events to recruit qualified candidates to fill more than 400 newly created positions for inventory associates, automo-

Roach Manufacturing Corporation (R.M.C.), a manufacturer of conveyors and conveying equipment also known as Roach Conveyors, announced it will expand its facility in Caraway, creating 30 new jobs over the next two years. The company, headquartered in Trumann, opened its assembly and completion operations in Caraway in 2019, where it currently employs 15 people. American furniture maker La-Z-Boy is expanding its second shift at its facility in Siloam Springs, creating 125 new jobs. The expansion comes after the plan was forced to temporarily shut down in March 2020 due to challenges presented by COVID-19.At that time, the company had 420 tive technicians, and autobody and paint technicians. employees.With the expansion of the second shift, total employment will increase to 545. Nestle unveiled that it will invest more than Nucor Steel Arkansas held a ribbon-cutting $100 million to expand the company’s production ceremony on October 25, 2019 for its new $230 facility in Jonesboro to include a new line to produce Hot Pockets brand sandwiches.As part of the million specialty cold mill complex at its Hickman facility.The company hired approximately 100 new expansion, the company plans to hire at least 100 new employees over two years, as well as renovate workers as part of the cold mill project. Lockheed Martin announced a $142 million and add 90,000 square feet to its facility. investment and 326 new jobs over the next few Amazon.com, Inc. announced plans to open a years with expansion at Camden plant. There new fulfillment center in North Little Rock.The are approximately 700 employees currently in new fulfillment center will create over 500 new, Camden. full-time jobs with industry-leading pay and comSupplyPike, a start-up company that offers a prehensive benefits starting on day one. digital Supply Chain Management (SCM) platform Revolution, parent company of Delta Plastics, announced plans to expand its 100,000-square-foot for Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), announced manufacturing facility in Little Rock by an additional that it will locate in Fayetteville, creating nearly 180 new jobs within the next five years. 36,000 square feet.With this investment, RevoluOfficials with Transplace, a leading provider of tion expects to create more than 60 new jobs for transportation management services and logistics the state of Arkansas within the next two years, technology solutions, announced it is building a bringing total employment at the facility to more than 350. The investment at the Little Rock facility, new operations center in Rogers that will accommodate Transplace’s plans to add hundreds of new totals over $20 million. employees in the next several years. Cynergy Cargo 2, a manufacturer of enclosed DXC Technology, a global IT company with cargo trailers, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on offices in Conway, will expand its operation and September 3, 2020 for its new facility in the Croscreate 1,200 jobs over the next three years.This sett Industrial Park. In April 2020, the company announced plans to build the facility and hire 70 will increase the DXC Technology payroll in Connew, full-time employees within 24 months. way to 1,600.

www.careerwatch.org | 45

Arkansas State University - Newport instructor brings experience to classroom by Spencer Griffin

With major advancements in technology creating jobs in nearly every sector, it should come as no surprise that the manufacturing career cluster is also affected by this technological revolution. In particular, computer numeric controlled (CNC) machinists have been called upon to enter the industry with knowledge of these technological changes and the ability to adapt to those changes as their careers progress. One man helping lead today’s youth into the workforce through these manufacturing advancements is Alan Keith, CNC machining instructor at Arkansas State University – Newport. Keith has been teaching in the ASU – Newport advanced manufacturing technology program for five years. Before Keith got into the education field, he gained his experience through work as an industrial/manufacturing engineer. Before diving into Keith’s thoughts on the industry, it is important to know just what these manufacturing occupational titles

46 | Career Watch Arkansas

represent. For this, we can look at O*NET for accurate definitions of these titles. Machinists (or CNC Machinist) “Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or to maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.” Manufacturing Engineers “Design, integrate, or improve manufacturing systems or related processes. May work with commercial or industrial designers to refine product designs to increase producibility and decrease costs.” Industrial Engineers “Design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes, including human work factors, quality control, inventory control,

logistics and material flow, cost analysis, and production coordination.” For a more detailed breakdown of these occupational titles, such as education required, tasks typically involved, technological skills recommended, etc., visit www.onetonline.org. While working in the manufacturing career cluster as an industrial/manufacturing engineer, Keith says that there were a few aspects of the job that he enjoyed in particular. “[My favorite part about working in the field was] resolving problems,” he says. He adds that typically an associate degree

desire to create, it is also important for those looking for success in the field to enjoy solving problems with programs and parts. He adds that one can do this by learning as much as possible about the field as soon as possible. Among the many advantages of working in manufacturing, Keith says that one aspect may catch one’s eye more than others. “[It’s] a good paying, steady career,” he says. “[The] first year, [you can make] over $40,000, [and in] two to three years, over $50,000. [There’s] tremendous opportunity and good wages.” As mentioned earlier, Keith is now a CNC machining instructor at ASU – Newport, helping students learn the necessary skills in order to emerge in the industry as successful as possible. According to ASU – Newport, ““ASUN’s advanced manufacturing technology program teaches the skills you need for today’s manufacturing facilities and machine shops. The manufacturing industry uses advanced computer-aided drafting, programming, machining and computer numerically controlled machines (CNC) to design, manufacture and deliver products to the customer. Students receive hands-on experience in, computer numerically controlled machines, computer-aided design and drafting, and machining. This exciting program trains students that or technical certificate is required to enter are in demand from companies such as ABB, the field, and that it would be helpful to take Unilever, Best Manufacturing, Alexander’s certification or training classes in order to Machine Shop and many others.” get a better understanding of the equipment One can glean just from the overview of and the job itself. the industry and its varying occupations, that Keith says that most people looking to manufacturing jobs can provide steady work emerge in the field have one thing in with exceptional income to those who are common: willing to gain the knowledge necessary to “The desire to create something,” he says. keep up with the technological ability of the Keith says that, in addition to having the equipment.

[It's] a good paying, steady career. There's tremendous opportunity and good wages.

www.careerwatch.org | 47

SKILLS Critical Thinking Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

to pay the

1 Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Speaking Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Monitoring Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Social Perceptiveness Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

4 5 6 7

8 Time Management Managing one's own time and the time of others.

Bills

Reading Comprehension Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Coordination Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

Service Orientation Actively looking for ways to help people.

9 10

Writing Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience. Note: This year's skills are based on non-comprehensive data.

48 | Career Watch Arkansas

Top 10 Occupations

by Education Different occupations need different types of training. Some require only on-the-job training, while others require an advanced degree. The jobs listed below are projected to be the top growing occupations by education level through 2022.

Based on State of Arkansas' 2020-2022 Short-term Occupational Projections Net Growth

High school or less

Associate degree or vocational training

Bachelor's degree or higher

Insurance Sales Agents Electricians Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners Sales Representatives,Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Industrial Machinery Mechanics Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Customer Service Representatives Stockers and Order Fillers

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers Medical Assistants Firefighters Dental Assistants Paralegals and Legal Assistants Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Computer User Support Specialists Respiratory Therapists Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics Dental Hygienists

Clergy Medical and Health Services Managers Nurse Practitioners Financial Managers General and Operations Managers Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers Accountants and Auditors Management Analysts Project Management Specialists and Business Operations Specialists, All Other Registered Nurses

www.careerwatch.org | 49

YOUR PATH TO COLLEGE

reparation for higher education begins in the 8th grade and continues throughout high school.

• Think about career possibilities and explore occupations that meet your interests and skills. • Study hard and earn good grades to prepare for college. • Become involved in extra-curricular activities that interest you. • Look for summer jobs or volunteer work to expand your experience and skills. 50 | Career Watch Arkansas

• Research possible colleges and universities that match your career goals. • Prepare for standardized testing by taking ACT practice tests. • Visit with your school guidance counselor to discuss your course selection to make sure it meets college entrance requirements.

• Request information from colleges you are interested in attending. Find out admission requirements, degrees and majors offered, financial aid, scholarships, and student housing information. • Plan a campus visit and attend local college fairs. • Take the SAT or ACT.

• Apply to your top college choices and keep track of admissions deadlines. • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to see if you qualify for financial aid, scholarships, and grants after October 1 of your senior year. • Complete Arkansas’ online YOUniversal application between January 1 and June 1 to apply for state scholarships and grants. • Attend spring or summer orientation programs for incoming college freshmen.

WANT TO

early eight million students play sports in high school, so let's be realistic. The odds are against you making it to the big leagues, simply based on the numbers. And what if you have a career-ending injury?

Have a back-up plan

There are several occupations that will keep you in the game: Coaches and Scouts • Reporters and Correspondents Public Relations Specialists • Photographers • Athletic Trainers • Physical Therapists Women's Basketball

Football

High school players - 399,067

High school players - 1,006,013

Will play in college - 4.1% (16,509)

Will play in college - 7.3% (73,712)

Will be drafted by WNBA out of college - 0.8% (31)

Will be drafted by NFL out of college - 1.6% (254)

High school players that will go pro - 0.0078%

High school players that will go pro - 0.025%

Baseball

Men's Basketball

High school players - 482,740

High school players - 540,769

Will play in college - 7.5% (36,011)

Will play in college - 3.5% (18,816)

Will be drafted by MLB out of college - 9.9% (791)

Will be drafted by NBA out of college - 1.2% (52)

High school players that will go pro - 0.16%

High school players that will go pro - 0.0096%

Source: NCAA.org, April 2020 Produced by Labor Market Information/Occupational Career Information • P.O. Box 2981, Little Rock, AR 72203 • 501-682-3117

www.careerwatch.org | 51

Today’s advanced manufacturing is not your father’s factory job By the Arkansas Economic Development Commission

Arkansas has been a leader in manufacturing for more than half a century, and it is fundamental to the state’s economic diversity and success. Today’s advanced manufacturing businesses mean more jobs, higher pay, a better standard of living, and higher export potential. A 2015 study by the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte found that there exists a growing skills gap between the talent manufacturers need and the talent currently available. According to the report, U.S. manufacturers will need to fill almost 3.5 million jobs. About 2 million of these – more than half – will go unfilled because of the skills gap. A large majority of jobs will be available due to retirements (an estimated 2.7 million jobs) and economic expansions (about 700,000 jobs). Unfortunately, several factors are contributing to the climate including loss of knowledge

52 | Career Watch Arkansas

as workers retire, a negative image of manufacturing among younger generations, lack of STEM and soft skills, and a decline of technical education programs in public schools. During his inaugural address, Gov. Asa Hutchinson listed four goals for achieving economic stability, all of which point toward making business easier to conduct in Arkansas. These include lowering tax rates, implementing a workforce initiative to improve job skill training for high schools and twoyear colleges, offering computer science classes in every high school and introducing middle-school students to careers in technology, and reducing the burden of unreasonable regulations on businesses. All four goals were reached within two years. Now our state needs more skilled workers. For Arkansas to grow and succeed in the

future, we must find and retain talent. About 75 percent of the needed talent in our state falls into three areas: production, mechanical repair, and mechatronics. In short, we need people to build things, fix things, and troubleshoot things. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s Existing Business Resources Division has several initiatives to help manufacturers. Arkansas has implemented a workforce initiative that includes private-public partnerships with industries, two-year colleges, technical schools and high schools through the ArFuture Grants. This initiative bolsters the state's workforce by covering all tuition and mandatory fees at two-year colleges and technical schools for students pursuing a variety of in-demand fields like computer science and welding. This program will increase access to higher education for Arkansans, while also ensuring that we are creating a talent pool that is specifically tailored to the demands of Arkansas industry. The Career Readiness Certificate (CRC) matches qualified workers seeking jobs with employers. The certificate lets employers know that the individual has basic place skills in reading for information, applied mathematics, and locating information. Even if a job seeker has a GED, high school diploma or post-secondary degree, the National CRC further verifies that he/she can handle skills required for 21st-century jobs. The Modern Workplace programs connects educators and industry representatives in an effort to gain familiarity with local products and processes utilized in the workplace, link employers with the local/regional school system to foster ongoing relationships with educators, provide educators with local/ regional business context they can use to

supplement current teaching curriculum, and familiarize educators with career opportunities in local industry and the skills needed to be successful. The Arkansas Institute for Performance Excellence provides training and consultation and administers the Governor's Quality Award Program. Any public or privately held organization of any size located in Arkansas may apply. These are just a few of the programs Arkansas leaders are using to attract and retain the skilled workforce needed to attract businesses and industries to the state.

www.careerwatch.org | 53

Welder turned teacher prepares students for bright, stable future by Spencer Griffin

University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM) welding instructor Zack Freeman has spent most of his adult life surrounded by the torch. In fact, Freeman has 21 years of experience in the welding industry alone, and fiveand-a-half more as an instructor at UACCM. Freeman began his career journey in victorious fashion. While in the welding program at Russellville Vo-Tech Center in May of 2000, between his junior and senior year of high school, Freeman won a welding competition. Little did he know the victories would not stop there. Among the judges was an owner of Cooling and Applied Technology (C.A.T.), who, after the competition, offered Freeman a part-time job. Freeman would later work multiple welding jobs in Fort Smith and Russellville, becoming experienced in gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux core arc welding (FCAW), and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). This allowed him to become well-rounded in his welding career. O*NET describes the welding occupation as such:

54 | Career Watch Arkansas

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers "Use hand-welding, flame-cutting, hand-soldering, or brazing equipment to weld or join metal components or to fill holes, indentations, or seams of fabricated metal products." O*NET also describes tasks that are related to the occupation: (These are just

five of the 30 tasks listed on O*NET.To see more tasks, visit www.onetonline.org.)

• Weld components in flat, vertical, or overhead positions. • Operate safety equipment and use safe work habits. • Examine workpieces for defects and measure workpieces with straightedges or templates to ensure conformance with specifications. • Recognize, set up, and operate hand and power tools common to the welding trade, such as shielded metal arc and gas metal arc welding equipment. • Weld separately or in combination, using aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, and other alloys. After his many jobs, it was time for the college life for Freeman. “I entered college at the age of 27,” he says. “I felt that I needed to pursue a degree in order to advance within the company.

While attending classes, the welding instructor position became available, and I was told I should apply. I was hired two weeks later and have found that helping students find a career path is one of the most enjoyable things I have ever done.” Freeman has helped UACCM become the state’s first American Welding Society (AWS) weld test facility. This means students and welders already in the field can take AWS qualification tests at UACCM, tests that will be recognized all over the country.

Anyone in the welding/technical fields can travel anywhere in the country and find a job.

UACCM also always has two certified weld inspectors on site and can accommodate any testing or training needs that anyone might have. When it comes to encouraging his students, Freeman likes to remind them that there is money to be made in the industry, but only if they are willing to work hard. He

says that students who have completed the welding program typically start out making $15 to $21 an hour, but students who are willing to travel will far exceed this amount. He adds that long hours and overtime can be the difference between a welder who makes $40,000 per year and $80,000 or more per year. “If students are not willing to get dirty and work hard, no matter what the weather conditions are, then they won’t make it in the field,” he says. “Degrees are very important, but if you go to school and acquire a degree that does not have job opportunities, then what good is it? Anyone in the welding/technical fields can travel anywhere in the country and find a job.” Freeman adds that most students are offered multiple jobs while they are still enrolled in classes. Technology has played a major role in almost all industries in the workforce, and welding is no different. “With robotics coming on strong, students at UACCM will have the option to train on a Lincoln educational robotic welder as well as a CNC plasma cutting machine, an automatic band saw, and a programmable metal shear,” Freeman says. Freeman harps on the stability of the field and reinforces the notion that hard work can lead a student to success, especially when it comes to welding. “I have been employed as a welder since May 29, 2000. I have not gone one day without a job since I started,” he says. “I do not see the welding field slowing down any time in the future. So, if you are considering a career, you are willing to work hard, and you aren’t afraid to get a little dirty, I encourage you to look into the welding field.”

www.careerwatch.org | 55

Arkansas' Rich History in Advanced Aerospace Manufacturing & Defense By the Arkansas Economic Development Commission Arkansas’ first well-documented flight took place in Fort Smith on May 21, 1910. James C. “Bud” Mars was the pilot of the Curtiss biplane that reached an estimated speed of 60 mph. The entry of the United States into World War I propelled aviation forward rapidly. In 1917, Eberts Training Field was established near the town of Lonoke to meet the growing need for qualified pilots. During the war, Eberts Field ranked second among aviation training fields maintained by the U.S. government, and it was one of the leading training centers for aviators during the war. It had about 1,000 cadets being trained in aviation, and nearly 1,500 enlisted men and officers were stationed at the field. In 1925, the 154th Observation Squadron was established in the Arkansas National Guard.The squadron originally flew out of the Little Rock Municipal Airport and helped locate stranded citizens after the flood of 1927.The unit served in combat during World War II and is still active today as the 189th Airlift Wing, flying C-130s out of Little Rock Air Force Base. As air traffic grew and commercial uses developed, it became necessary to create formal airfields.Amendment 13 to the Arkansas Constitution authorized funding such projects. Little Rock built the first one in 1926, which is now the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport. Pine Bluff followed, opening Toney Field in 1927. Fort Smith’s Alexander Field opened in 1927. In 1928,Arkansas

56 | Career Watch Arkansas

Air Tours began, supported by local enthusiasts who organized flying clubs. During World War II,Arkansas was home to six ordnance plants.The sites were located near Jacksonville, Marche, Hope, El Dorado, Pine Bluff and Camden.These plants were the location for the manufacture of detonators, fuses, primers and bombs; proving grounds for testing munitions; rocket loading, testing and storage; and producing chemical agents needed in bombs and explosives. Four of the plants were government owned and contractor operated (GOCO).The Southwestern Proving Ground and the Pine Bluff Arsenal were government owned and operated.All the plants depended heavily on civilian workers for their main work force.The wartime industries brought needed money and jobs for Arkansas citizens, particularly women, and contributed greatly to the economy of Arkansas. After the war, the state never returned to heavy agricultural-based economy that had been present before World War II, developing instead a more industrialized economy. The end of the Second World War left some Arkansas communities with extensive airfields.The Walnut Ridge Army Flying School was chosen to serve as an airplane graveyard, and newly finished airplanes were flown in and converted into scrap. A different scenario unfolded at Fayetteville, where the municipal airport, named Drake Field in 1949, predated the war. Raymond J. Ellis’s Central Air Transport flew 5,000 baby chickens in 1946 for

John Tyson, from Joplin, Missouri, to Springdale, Arkansas. Ellis started the state’s first commuter service (to Little Rock) in 1946. South Central Air Transport (SCAT) was the first of his efforts, but Scheduled Skyways, founded in 1953, was the most enduring. In 1954, Central Airlines came to Fayetteville, eventually merging with Frontier Airlines. With the start of the Cold War,Arkansas became home to two air force bases. Eaker Air Force Base was located outside of Blytheville in northeastern Arkansas; it closed in 1992. Little Rock Air Force Base (LFAFB) opened in 1955 and served as home to the Strategic Air Command. It has survived base closings, and the 188th Fighter Wing of the Air National Guard at Fort Smith successfully appealed its shutdown. Arkansas currently has five military installations: Little Rock Air Force Base, Pine Bluff Arsenal, Camp Robinson and Camp Pike, Ebbing Air National Guard Base, and Fort Chaffee Joint Maneuver Training Center.The U.S. military contributes significantly to the Arkansas economy, providing 67,000 direct and indirect jobs and a local economic impact of more than $4.5 billion a year. Little Rock Air Force Base alone is the third-largest employer in the state, including more than 7,500 active-duty military and civilian members and 1,488 civilians.Arkansas has a proud history of military service, infrastructure and resources. Our service men and women and our military installations not only play a vital role in our national defense, but they make an enormous, positive impact on the state’s economy. There was also another aspect of the defense industry in Arkansas you may not know about – missiles.William L. Ripley, a North Little Rock science teacher, organized the Arkansas Amateur Rocket Society in the fall of 1957. On a much larger scale, in the 1960s, silos for Titan II missiles — intercontinental ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads — were established in Arkansas. Today, the defense industry is still the lifeline of the Camden area economy, including Ouachita and Calhoun counties.As the manufacturing

center of south Arkansas, the area is home to the Highland Industrial Park and a highly skilled workforce with a long history of aerospace and defense manufacturing, specializing in munitions, rockets, guided missiles, launchers and other battle vehicles. Companies at the Highland Industrial Park include Lockheed Martin,Aerojet Rocketdyne, General Dynamics, Esterline Defense among others. With the rapid growth and development in northwest Arkansas because of companies like Walmart,Tyson Foods and J.B. Hunt, the region needed a larger airport that could accommodate larger airlines.With Air Force One in the background and a crowd of roughly 8,000 people looking on, President Bill Clinton dedicated the new Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport on November 6, 1998.The airport officially opened for commercial service on November 1, bringing to an end an eight-year process of planning and construction. Fast forward to today, and Arkansas is still a leader in the aviation industry. Home to nearly 180 well-known companies in the industry, aerospace/aviation is Arkansas’ leading export, in part because the state offers a very competitive environment for aerospace and aviation companies to operate.Arkansas has numerous available sites with runway access and aviation-focused facilities, along with a highly skilled labor force nearly 1.3 million strong. Little Rock is home to Dassault-Falcon Jet Corporation’s Completion Center, a major producer of business airplanes.The Completion Center is located at Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, and employs about 1,500 people. Occupying nearly 1,000,000 total sq. ft., Little Rock is the largest Dassault facility in the world.The Center handles all phases of aircraft completions and modifications such as instrumentation, wiring, interiors, painting, engineering and flight testing. The Little Rock Completion Center is the main completion center for Falcon Jets worldwide. It is among the best equipped and most efficient in the world.

www.careerwatch.org | 57

Continuing your education after high school pays off. College graduates with a bachelor’s degree earn $524 more a week than a high school graduate.

Note: Data are for persons age 25 and over. Earnings are for full-time wage and salary workers for 2020. Source: Current Population Survey, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Less than High School

$619

High School Diploma

$781

Some College, No Degree $877

58 | Career Watch Arkansas

Associate Degree

$938

Bachelor's Degree

$1,305

Master's Degree

$1,545

Professional Degree

$1,893

Doctoral Degree

$1,885

Fold Here

To:(Mo./Yr.)

Courses/Subject Of Study

Year Grad.

Reason for Leaving

DWS OCI 6/09

Telephone

Leadership Activities

Honors and Awards

From:(Mo./Yr.)

Phone Number

Address

Fold Here

Name & Location Of School

Supervisor

Phone Number

Driver’s License Number

www.dws.arkansas.gov

Level Of Education

Position

Address

Name

PREPARATION •Fill in Pocket Resume. •Learn something about the company. •Have specific job or jobs in mind. •Review your qualifications for the job. •Be prepared to answer broad questions. APPEARANCE •Well groomed. •Suitably dressed. •Make-up in good taste. INTERVIEW •Be prompt. •Answer questions directly and truthfully. •Be well mannered. •Use proper grammar and good diction. •Be enthusiastic and cooperative. •Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Education

High School

College

Vocational

Other Education Opportunities

Relationship to you

Skills and Abilities

POCKET RESUME The pocket guide for job applications and interviews

Name & Address of Employer

Prior Employment (Full And Part-time Jobs)

Dates:(Mo./Yr.)

References: (not related to you and ask permission first)

Name

Fold Here

www.careerwatch.org | iii

You r

s n Career Optio

Your Arkansas Labor Market Information resource!

Employment Statistics Business Listings Wage & Salary Information Demographic Data Education & Training

www.discover.arkansas.gov

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities www.careerwatch.org | 3

Connect. Learn. Share. with Career Watch Arkansas

Discover:

A NSA

CARE

Be Connected

W CH AT

Occupations Resume and Interview Tips Education and Career News Arkansas Colleges and Universities

careerwatchar Labor Market Information Occupational Career Information P.O. Box 2981 Little Rock, AR 72203 501-682-3117

www.discover.arkansas.gov 4 | Career Watch Arkansas

•

www.careerwatch.org

•

Career Watch Arkansas 2021

Articles inside

Education Pays

Arkansas' Rich History in Advanced Aerospace Manufacturing & Defense

Welder turned teacher prepares students for bright, stable future

Today’s advanced manufacturing is not your father’s factory job

So, You Want to Go Pro?

Your Path to College

Top 10 Occupations by Education

Skills to pay the Bills

Arkansas State University - Newport instructor brings experience to classroom

Arkansas manufacturers find silver lining in difficult year

Arkansas Colleges and Universities

How will I pay for college?

Manufacturing Pathways

Manufacturing Career Cluster

Career Clusters

Manufacturing degrees & certifications

Manufacturing

The Interview

A Better Letter

Resume Guide