ABB reported Aug. 19 that it’s equipping the next generation of advanced technology manufacturing professionals by partnering with Arkansas Tech University’s Ozark campus to launch a career-readiness program. This collaborative, workforce-development initiative will offer curricula focused on automation technology, air conditioning and refrigeration.
ABB reports its Ozark motor-manufacturing facility is the region’s third-largest employer with more than 250 employees and a leading economic driver in the community. Each week, the facility produces 3,000 Baldor-Reliance industrial electric motors, which power fans, pumps, blowers and other systems that ensure safe and efficient flows of air, liquids and data.
“This program is an effective workforce development initiative that has the potential to support the entire region,” says Greg Dawson, HR business partner at ABB’s Ozark plant. “Instead of bringing in temps and starting them from scratch, we’re pre-training our candidates to succeed in our manufacturing operations.”
The course at Arkansas Tech teaches essential operations competencies, including smart manufacturing, setup and operation of smart machines, precision measurement, robotics operation and production monitoring technologies. The five-week program provides training in ABB’s production systems with specialized instruction in motor assembly, brazing and line load. Upon completion, students will receive a certification from the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) and three hours of college credit.
ABB intends to replicate this model at other universities near its manufacturing facilities. It reports the program at Arkansas Tech exemplifies its ongoing commitment to nurturing future professionals in its communities. For example, ABB already has a longstanding partnership with the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. In 2023, ABB invested $1 million to create a workforce training program at the university. This initiative focuses on roles in advanced manufacturing, engineering, automation, design processes and technology. ABB also supports the Peak Innovation Center, a regional partnership program between Fort Smith Public Schools and UAFS. ABB invested $1 million to acquire state-of-the-art equipment for the advanced manufacturing program, including pathways in automation/robotics, electronics technology and computer-integrated machining.
