LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A groundbreaking partnership between the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) and Reach University aims to bridge the gap between education and practical job experience through a new apprenticeship degree program. This initiative is part of a national movement to expand apprenticeship opportunities and equip students with the skills needed for in-demand careers.
Led by the National Center for the Apprenticeship Degree (NCAD), the program seeks to blend academic learning with on-the-job training, offering a debt-free pathway to a degree while addressing regional workforce needs.
On September 6, UACCB officials, along with representatives from Reach University, met with faculty and local industry leaders to discuss the implementation of the apprenticeship degree programs. These programs are designed to foster collaboration between the college and regional industries, enabling workers to gain valuable experience while pursuing academic credentials.
Dr. Holly Smith, vice chancellor for academic affairs at UACCB, emphasized the significance of the partnership. “By aligning on-the-job training with academic achievement, we are not only providing individuals with a debt-free pathway to a degree but also meeting the pressing talent demands of our local industries,” she said.
The partnership aims to create lasting career paths by integrating practical experience with academic education, ensuring that students not only fill available jobs but also build fulfilling careers. According to a press release, the initiative will focus on high-demand fields and provide industries with a sustainable talent pipeline.
Dr. Brian Shonk, chancellor of UACCB, highlighted the potential impact of the collaboration. “This partnership is about more than just earning a degree; it’s about creating opportunities for individuals to thrive in their careers and for businesses to grow a highly skilled workforce,” Shonk said.
UACCB is encouraging community and industry partners to join the discussion and help reshape how workplaces can serve as environments for both career development and learning. Through this innovative approach, the college hopes to revolutionize the relationship between education and industry.
