JONESBORO – Leaders from business, education, government, and industry across Arkansas gathered Thursday at the Catalyst NEA forum to examine how partnerships between higher education and industry are fostering innovation, supporting workforce development, and driving economic growth statewide.
The annual event, hosted by Arkansas State University (A-State) at the Embassy Suites Red Wolf Convention Center, centered on collaborative solutions aimed at addressing challenges and seizing opportunities for the state’s future. Chancellor Calvin White Jr. highlighted the university’s commitment to blending education, research, and industry connections to benefit students and communities.
"Public higher education is a public good, and everything we do at Arkansas State is focused on our responsibility to educate and prepare students for success," White said. "Catalyst NEA brings together people who can strengthen those connections, develop solutions, and create new opportunities. When our students succeed and our industry partners succeed, Arkansas succeeds."
Two initiatives presented during the forum showcased the university’s collaborative efforts with industry. One involved A-State's student-led Security Operations Center, developed with Jonesboro-based cybersecurity firm Kalmer Solutions. This program provides hands-on learning for students while preparing professionals to meet Arkansas’s growing technology demands. Panelists at the forum discussed opportunities to expand similar programs across the Arkansas State University System.
In another example, A-State’s decades-long partnership with the Arkansas Department of Transportation was highlighted for its impact on infrastructure research. Over its 50-year history, the collaboration has completed 23 projects aimed at addressing transportation challenges. Current research includes exploring the use of industrial byproducts and recycled materials to create more durable and sustainable construction materials.
Workforce development was also a central theme of the forum. Discussions emphasized the need for alignment between K-12 schools, higher education, and employers to ensure students are prepared for evolving economic demands. Randy Zook, president and CEO of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce, underscored the importance of academic and career pathways.
"A strong workforce doesn't happen by accident. It takes intentional collaboration among K-12 schools, higher education, and industry to ensure students develop the skills and experiences employers need," Zook said. "When we work together to build clear pathways from the classroom to meaningful careers, we're creating better outcomes for students, stronger businesses, and more opportunities for communities across Arkansas."
The College of Education and Behavioral Science at A-State plays a critical role in this effort, preparing educators who serve in every county across Arkansas. The college works with school districts to enhance teacher preparation, establish alternative pathways into the field, and provide career-long support for educators, according to Edie Stewart, CEO of Forward Arkansas.
“Conversations like those convened by Catalyst NEA — and sparked by it — are essential to continuing to improve educational outcomes and give me so much hope for what we can accomplish for Arkansas kids and families," Stewart said.
Other discussions during the forum addressed leadership development and rural health care needs. Strategies included improving access to medical services, expanding educational pathways in health care, and addressing challenges faced by underserved communities in Arkansas. Panelists also noted the contributions of A-State's College of Nursing and Health Professions, the College of Veterinary Medicine, and its partnership with the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine.
The event featured a recorded message from Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders welcoming participants and acknowledging the importance of the forum’s discussions.
Catalyst NEA’s media partner, Arkansas State Media Network, extended the reach of the forum’s insights through recorded leader interviews produced by PodcastVideos.com. Sponsors for this year’s event included the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce, Nucor Steel, and Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
The next Catalyst NEA Economic Development and Leadership Forum is scheduled to take place on Nov. 4, 2027.