NWACC to receive more than $700K in federal grants

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — The U.S. Department of Labor awarded the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College and other partnering colleges with more than $5 million, a recent release said.

According to the release, the Department of Labor awarded $5 million to help enlarge training and skill development for students pursuing in-demand jobs. Of the $5 million, Northwest Arkansas Community College will receive $736,177. The funds will be used to focus on Nursing and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workforce development.

“The Department of Labor recognizes that the workforce in healthcare is continually growing and in continuous need. Two of the biggest shortages in healthcare are nursing and Emergency Medical Services personnel, and the Department is taking a great effort to combat the shortages across the nation,” said Mark Wallenmeyer, Dean of Health Professions. “The strengthening community colleges grant is greatly needed. Community colleges can get these healthcare workers into the workforce quickly.”

The release states that $65 million in awards were granted to 16 colleges in 14 states as part of the Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants, according to the Department of Labor, which the Employment and Training Administration directs. This is the fourth round of awards.

“This grant will allow community colleges to replace wearing and outdated equipment, as well as hire more educators to help with the training of nursing and EMS students,” said Wallenmeyer. “Students need to train on the best equipment available, and this grant will help. The addition of more educators allows for a lower student-to-teacher ratio as well. This helps students get connected more with their instructors and gives them a better learning environment to be more successful.”

According to the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College, sub-awarded organizations included five colleges:

• East Arkansas Community College
• U of A Phillips County Community College
• ASU Mid-South
• NorthWest Arkansas Community College
• Southeast Arkansas Community College.

NorthWest Arkansas Community College is expected to receive the funds next month.

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