An Arkansas State University-Newport at Jonesboro welding student is the recipient of the 2020 Tech Talent Scholarship.

The Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce awarded $1,000 to Trent M. Green. Green is a graduate of Nettleton High School and is currently enrolled at ASUN-Jonesboro, where he is pursuing a Technical Certification in Welding.

Green said he found his career path in high school. “My reason for going in this direction started my junior year in high school when I took Agriculture & Mechanics and realized that I enjoy working with my hands and it is something I am very interested in," Green said. 

The scholarship was developed by the Chamber’s Workforce Development Committee. Volunteers of the Committee annually impact almost 3,000 K-12 students by connecting educators and students with business and industry. Volunteers provide career mentoring, leadership training, networking, recognition, volunteer opportunities and internships.

“This scholarship project and others are successful due to the hard work and imagination of our team," Shanna Kennedy, Committee Chair, said. "Our committee of volunteers is able to show our future workforce what is great about Jonesboro thanks to our sponsors. Thank you to everyone who made providing this scholarship to Trent possible – it has brought a bright spot to 2020.”

The Workforce Development Committee partners with key organizations each year that fund its projects. Post Consumer Brands is the Presenting Sponsor for 2020. Platinum sponsors are Corter Consulting, NEA Baptist and St. Bernards Healthcare. The Gold Sponsor is Farm Credit Midsouth.

“Post is thrilled to support a program like this that gives young people a valuable skill as they enter the workplace," said John Kompa with Post Consumer Brands.

Welding is a high-demand career field in the Jonesboro region. Welders are sought after by Jonesboro’s growing industrial base. According to Jonesboro Unlimited’s 2019 Jonesboro Area Industry Wage & Benefit Survey, welders earn an average hourly rate of $20.00-$21.00.

ASUN students graduating with a Technical Certificate in Welding or higher will be prepared for entry-level positions in welding manufacturing, construction, and custom fabrication.

To learn more about ASU-Newport's welding program click here.