Sharp County has achieved certification as an ACT Work Ready Community, a designation that underscores its commitment to building a skilled workforce that attracts employers, supports economic development, and benefits current and future residents.

The certification is the result of a collaborative initiative among the Northeast Arkansas Regional Intermodal Authority, Ozarka College, and Sharp County leadership. The effort began in February 2024, when county representatives attended the ACT Work Ready Communities Boot Camp-an executiveleadershipandtrainingprogramfacilitatedbyACTtolaunchandguidetargeted workforce development strategies.

Throughout the process, the steering committee engaged local employers, educators, and policymakers toset goals and create a sustainable model tailored to community needs. More than 450 students, current workers, and job seekers earned the National Career Readiness Certificate ® (NCRC ®), and24 area employers pledged to recognize the credential in their hiring processes.

"We know Sharp County has a strong, skilled workforce, " said Graycen Bigger, NEA Intermodal Authority executive director. "This certification not only helps connect local talent with existing employers, it strengthens our regional recruitment efforts. We're proud to partner with Ozarka College and look forward to continued collaboration to enhance our workforce. "

The ACT ® Work Ready Communities initiative equips states, regions, and counties with data, tools, and strategies to close skill gaps and drive economic growth. With Sharp County's certification, the entire NEA Intermodal region is now recognized as a certified Work Ready Region.

"This certification is a testament to what's possible when education, industry, and local leadership come together to invest in people, " said Marcus Orf, Ozarka College vice president of advancement and workforce development. "Sharp County's commitment to workforce readiness will provide opportunity for generations."

Participants in the initiative leverage the ACT ® WorkKeys ® NCRC ® to assess and align workforce skills,creatingacommonframeworkthatlinkseducation,employers,andeconomicdevelopment. Learnmoreat:https://workreadycommunities.org