At the postsecondary level, workforce development is defined as education and/or training beyond high school which leads to a G.E.D., technical certificate, two- to four-year degree, or other short-term, customized job skills training designed to meet the needs of employers to upgrade the skills of four distinctly different audiences: Existing (incumbent) workers; Emerging (pre-K thru High School “pipeline”) workers in pre-employment preparation; Transitional Workers (dislocated, single parents/career pathways, retiree renewed careers); and Entrepreneurial (small, independent business) workforces.

The job of the Arkansas 22 Two-Year Colleges is to:

1. Offer accessible, affordable opportunities for individuals to achieve personal education goals with an Individual Educational Plan;
2. Instill confidence and motivation for continuous improvement via lifelong learning;
3. Enhance an individual’s role, worth, and security in the workforce as a productive member and in value-added teams;
4. Provide employers with a competent, highly skilled, trained and re-trainable workforce to meet global competition and technology challenges.

 For more information on how AATYC can coordinate customized training for your business, please contact Steve Lease at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or (479) 424-0071.