Women & Workplace Stress

Workplace stress for women is a higher contributing factor for diabetes than low physical activity, smoking or drinking.  Specifically, "low job control" in the workplace is found to be such a stressor.  Click here for article.

Rethinking Supply Chain Strategy

A supply chain strategic plan that includes building collaborative relationships and managing risk can make a difference in the overall success of a manufacturer.  Click here to learn more.

Steering Clear of OSHA Missteps

Michael T. Taylor writes in the EHSToday newsletter that the "three most common OSHA compliance mistakes are failure to develop and enforce written EHS plans and rules, failure to track and implement corrective actions and failure to review case law, compliance directives and relevant letters of interpretation."  Click here to learn more.

German Apprenticeship Model - A Solution for the U.S.?

Germany has created an apprenticeship model that some experts think could be a step toward lower unemployment of younger workers in the U.S. as well as a method of matching employer demand to the supply of skilled labor.  Click here for entire article.

Strategies for U.S. Manufacturing

An Industry Week article examines several recent strategies to revitalize and support manufacturing in the U.S.  The author states that experts have clearly indicated that a long term strategy is necessary, and questions whether those in Washington are listening.  Click here for entire article.

Jonesboro Leads With Solutions

While the U.S. laments the shortage of skilled workers, Jonesboro works hard to ensure that local industry demands for skilled employees are met.  Jonesboro has solutions in place for training current employees and continues to develop a full pipeline of skilled workers for future employment.  The Workforce Training Consortium (WTC) offers training ranging from welding to blueprint reading to mechatronics (advanced manufacturing) to OSHA certification classes to supply chain management instruction - all provided to WTC member employees at very cost effective prices.  In addition, the Northeast Arkansas Career & Technical Center (NEACTC) develops skills of high school aged students and prepares them to enter the workforce upon high school graduation or to pursue post secondary education.  Internships and apprenticeships create mutually beneficial opportunities.  The WTC and NEACTC are just part of the overall workforce development strategy in Jonesboro.  For more information feel free to contact Shelle Randall at 870.933.5757 or at srandall@jonesborochamber.com. 

Kudos to Northeast Arkansas Career & Technical Center!

Our local vocational school, the Northeast Arkansas Career & Technical Center (NEACTC), recently received a national award given to only three other schools in the country.  The coveted national Gold Improvement Award from Technology Centers That Work will be presented to the school next month in New Orleans.  The school, located behind Jonesboro High School, serves 13 area schools and provides training that enhances the skills of the future workforce of our region, as well as preparing students for post-secondary education.  Click for The Sun article.