Using Labor Market Information and other data sources, the LRWDB has identified three leading industries that offer:
- Significant sector growth (short-term and long-term) and high demand for skilled workers
- High wages and defined career pathways for employees with nationally recognized credentials
- Engaged educational and employer partners in the local labor market
The top three emerging, in-demand industries and occupations in the Little Rock Workforce Development Area (LRWDA) are Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing, and Construction.
HEALTHCARE
The healthcare industry continues to expand in Little Rock, attracting top talent to provide high-quality care to patients. In-demand occupations in this industry sector include:
- In-Home Assistant, Personal Care Aid
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)*
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Medical and Lab Technician
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
Educational partners in central Arkansas provide training to help job seekers attain the required credentials for in-demand jobs, including: Little Rock School District, Medlinc, Baptist Health, and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.
Local employers provide employment opportunities for qualified candidates, including: CHI – St. Vincent, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Baptist Health, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and the Heart Hospital.
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING
Advanced Manufacturing is an emerging sector in Little Rock with substantial potential for growth. In-demand occupations in this industry sector include:
- Production Technician (CPT)
- Logistics Technician (CLT)
- Machinist (NIMS)
- Welder (AWS/CW)
- Aviatronics Mechanic
- Aeronautics Cabinetry and Upholstery
Educational partners in central Arkansas provide training to help job seekers attain the required credentials for in-demand jobs, including: the Little Rock School District, Metropolitan Career-Tech Center, Manufacturing Skill Standards Council, and University of Arkansas Pulaski Tech (UA-PTC).
Local employers provide employment opportunities for qualified candidates, including: Dassault Falcon Jet, Caterpillar, the Little Rock Port Authority, AFCO Steel, Lexicon, and Welspun Tubular.
Transportation and Logistics
The transportation and logistics industry offers high wages for entry level jobs and significant projected sector growth. In-demand occupations in this industry sector include:
- Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
- Diesel Mechanics
- Logistical Managers
- Freight, Stock, and Material Movers/Warehousing
Educational partners in central Arkansas provide training to help job seekers attain the required credentials for in-demand jobs, including: University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College, Goodwill Industries of Arkansas, Diesel Driving Academy, CDL Academy, WorldLink Truck Driving Academy, and River Rock CDL Training.
Local employers provide employment opportunities for qualified candidates, including: Maverick Trucking, Performance Foodservice, ABF Freight System, Wal-Mart, and Dillard’s.
CONSTRUCTION
The construction industry currently employs thousands of workers in Little Rock with a significant projected growth rate. In-demand occupations in this industry sector include:
- Construction Crafts (NCCER)
- Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (HVAC)
Educational partners in central Arkansas provide training to help job seekers attain the required credentials for in-demand jobs, including: the Little Rock School District, Arkansas Construction Education Foundation, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Job Corps, University of Arkansas Pulaski Tech (UA-PTC), Union & Employer Apprenticeships, and OSHA Certification Providers.
Local employers provide employment opportunities for qualified candidates, including: Vratsinas Construction Company, CDI Contractors, a wide variety of construction sub-contractors, and local unions.