College gets $6M grant to expand welding and metalworking programs

National Park College (NPC) announced it has been awarded a $6,000,000 Higher Industry Readiness through Educational Development (HIRED) grant from the Arkansas Department of Commerce.

The grant will enable NPC to construct a state-of-the-art 12,000-square-foot welding and metalworking facility. The new facility will double the College’s capacity to train skilled workers, meeting the growing demand for skilled welders and metalworkers in the region.

“This is a game-changer for NPC and our community,” said Bill Ritter, vice president for workforce at National Park College. “The HIRED grant, coupled with the strong support of our industry partners, will allow us to provide top-notch training to more students, strengthening our workforce and driving economic growth.”

Key features of the new facility and partnership initiatives include:

• Expanded Capacity: Thirty large, fixed welding booths and a dozen workstations will accommodate a significant increase in student enrollment in NPC’s high school and college welding programs.
• Enhanced Training: Specialized equipment and a 3,000-square-foot outdoor workshop will enable students to learn advanced welding and metalworking techniques.
• Industry Partnerships: NPC has forged strong partnerships with local industries, including FiberPro LLC, Radius Aerospace, Craft Manufacturing & Tooling, Airtech Supply, Xpress Boats and Veranda Luxury Pontoons, and West Central Arkansas Planning & Development District. These partnerships will provide students with internships, job placements, and opportunities for hands-on training.
• Curriculum Development: NPC will develop new curriculum and pathways to meet the evolving needs of industry, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for high-demand jobs.

"This new facility will provide our students with state-of-the-art equipment and resources to enhance their learning experience. We are committed to providing our students with the best possible education, and this grant will help us achieve that goal,” said Vice President for Academics, Dr. Chuck Argo.

The Oaklawn Foundation has pledged a $200,000 match to the project. Construction is expected to be completed by July 2026, with the new facility opening to students in the fall of 2026.

NPC President, Dr. Wade Derden said, "This HIRED grant is a transformative opportunity for National Park College. It will allow us to equip our students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in high-demand industries. We are grateful for the support of the Governor’s Office, our local business and industry partners, and the Arkansas Department of Commerce."