LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS – The Arkansas Center for Data Sciences (ACDS) has been awarded $1,390,214 by the Delta Regional Authority (DRA), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, through the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) Initiative to further their proven model utilizing Pre-Apprenticeship Training, Work-Based Learning Internships, and Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP) to address IT-related workforce gaps throughout Arkansas.

“We’re grateful for the funding provided by the DRA and the U.S. Department of Labor that will allow us to expand our services in key counties throughout the state,” said ACDS Executive Director Bill Yoder. “The need for technology talent in Arkansas is great. This investment will enable us to equip more Arkansans to fill in-demand technology jobs – and help create thriving communities along the way.”

“The Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Initiative provides grants to engage local communities and help build pathways for workers to good-paying jobs,” explained Acting Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Brent Parton in a news release from the U.S. Department of Labor.

The WORC Initiative will allow ACDS to scale up their existing work in Craighead and Jefferson Counties, while allowing ACDS to scale out efforts into Independence, Jackson, and Mississippi Counties. The WORC Initiative and ACDS have a shared goal of reaching and developing a skilled workforce in diverse, rural communities.