The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT) recently trained students who are enrolled in the Supply Chain Management (SCM) Program to be certified in forklift operations. The course was taught by a certified OSHA industry trainer. The course provides formal classroom instruction with evaluation and practical hands-on training in accordance with OSHA standards. Completing both portions of the training results in the issuance of a forklift operator training certification card valid for 3 years. OSHA requires employers to ensure that every powered industrial truck (forklift) operator is competent in the operation of a forklift prior to operating.
UAHT Supply Chain Management Instructor and Advisor Rachel Parson said, “This one-day training is a great opportunity for our SCM students to gain an additional credential that will make them employable in the field of Supply Chain Management.”
The Supply Chain Management program offered at UAHT is designed for employment in business, transportation, logistics, and warehousing. Graduates will understand the responsibilities of managing goods from raw materials to the final consumer. SCM courses are designed to be delivered as hybrid and online courses to meet the needs of working adults. The program prepares students for jobs in fields such as transportation, logistics, retail, consulting, education, energy, manufacturing, warehousing, military, government, and more.
“The Interstate 30 corridor in Southwest Arkansas is a key transportation route used to connect businesses located all over the nation. Area employers have expressed a need for employees who understand principles of transportation, logistics, and inventory management,” said Parson. “Growth in the transportation and manufacturing industries in Miller County alone makes this program vital to the economic health of our area. UAHT’s great locations in both Miller and Hempstead counties will provide qualified graduates to fill SCM positions throughout the region.”
Over 15,500 people are employed in the trade, transportation, and utilities industry in Southwest Arkansas, and the projected 2010-2020 industry growth is 5.9%. The projected transportation and materials moving occupations growth for the same period is 4.8% according to the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services Discover Arkansas Labor Market information. According to the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Research, and Extension 2013 Miller County profile, employment growth in the areas of transportation was 8% and manufacturing was 12%, which is outpacing the statewide growth of 4% and 10.5%.
