Ozarka College and Bad Boy Mowers have deepened their partnership with the renaming of the college’s welding center on the Melbourne campus. The Bad Boy Mowers Welding Center now provides students with a hands-on training environment equipped with industry-standard tools to prepare for careers in welding and skilled trades.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held recently to celebrate the renaming, recognizing the mower manufacturer's ongoing investment in the college's programs. "Bad Boy Mowers’ generous investment helps us sustain modern facilities and equipment while preparing Ozarka students for rewarding careers," said Ozarka College President Josh Wilson. “We are grateful for their continued partnership and commitment to developing — and employing — the skilled workforce our region needs."
The partnership between the Batesville-based company and Ozarka College has developed over several years, according to college officials. Marcus Orf, Ozarka’s vice president for advancement and workforce development, described the naming as a significant milestone in the relationship. “Bad Boy Mowers has been a tremendous partner in helping us connect education directly to the needs of industry,” Orf said. “Naming the center in their honor reflects that commitment and the impact we can make when education, industry, and our communities work together to build a stronger workforce for north-central Arkansas.”
The welding center is part of Ozarka College's efforts to expand career and technical education opportunities, offering students pathways to high-demand jobs. Students can earn credentials through the program that prepare them for immediate employment.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by college officials, industry partners, faculty, staff, students, and members of the community, highlighting broad support for the collaboration and its role in workforce development.
The initiative aligns with Ozarka College’s mission to meet the needs of local industries while providing accessible and practical education for students in the region.