Pulaski Tech receives $1.8 million grant for construction education initiative

July 21, 2026 - 03:31

The University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College has secured a $1.8 million federal grant aimed at helping young adults earn their GED while gaining hands-on construction skills. The funding, awarded through the U.S. Department of Labor, will support a new initiative designed to address both educational gaps and the growing demand for skilled tradespeople in central Arkansas.

The program targets individuals aged 16 to 24 who have left high school without a diploma. Participants will work toward their GED while receiving training in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and other construction trades. The goal is to create a direct pipeline from the classroom to the job site, offering a practical path to stable employment.

College officials say the grant will also cover support services like transportation assistance, childcare, and academic tutoring. These wraparound services are meant to remove common barriers that often prevent young adults from completing their education or entering the workforce.

Local construction companies have expressed interest in partnering with the college to provide apprenticeships and job placements. Industry leaders note that the region faces a shortage of qualified workers as building projects continue to expand.

The initiative is expected to enroll its first cohort of students later this year. Pulaski Tech plans to run the program for three years, with the possibility of renewal based on results.