By Ezra Mann of the Pine Bluff Commercial

November 15,2007...The manufacturing arena on the American front could use a boost or two.  At least that’s the feeling shared by Dr. Phil Shirley, president of Southeast Arkansas College, and leaders of 10 local industries.

SEARK and the Jefferson County Manufacturing Council announced Wednesday the establishment of the SEARK College Manufacturing Scholarship.

The purpose is to help enhance the skills of applicants for local manufacturing businesses and to eventually bring manufacturing jobs back to Pine Bluff.

To encourage training in the manufacturing field, SEARK will do what it can with the aid of participating companies.

Mac Bellingrath, chairman of the SEARK College Board of Trustees, and president of AVA, emphasized that SEARK is concerned about helping people in the community.

“We need you in the manufacturing community in Pine Bluff and we are urge you to consider the training and making a career with us,” Bellingrath said.

Sixteen students will be able to qualify for the scholarship, and 10 area companies have agreed to donate funds in order to make it possible.

“This momentum that these targeted core scholarships make, help create in both educational and manufacturing is significant to the long-term health of our economy,” Bellingrath said.

Those who have invested in the community such as Larry Lynn, president of the Jefferson County Manufacturing Council and vice president of Central Moloney, know that a lot of people have to work together to make the program work.

“We realize that for our industries to grow and for the community to attract new business we must develop a qualified workforce,” Lynn said.

Allied Tube, ArcelorMittal, Automatic Vending of Arkansas, Central Moloney, Evergreen Packaging, Pine Bluff Sand & Gravel, Quest Corp., Stant, The Strong Co. and Wheeling Machine Products make up the 10 companies that will sponsor the scholarship for three semesters.

Each corporation has agreed to fund at least one scholarship, which covers one course or three credits hours.  A course at SEARK averages $50 per credit hour.

Shirley noted that he was proud to see such a program established.

“What we are looking at is a partnership of two giants,” Shirley said.

The four basic disciplines covered by this scholarship are electrical, mechanical, welding and quality management.

Classes include blueprint reading and measurements and AC/DC fundamentals.  Any current or prospective student may apply for the scholarship, though it is limited to two courses for full-time and one for part-time and applicants will need to reside in the six-county service area of SEARK College with the intent to seek or continue work in Jefferson County.

Applications are due by Jan. 3. Details: Call SEARK at 543-5909.