Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus, in partnership with the Education Design Lab, is working on the launch of a new series of professional skills training micro-credentials designed to help upskill and reskill the workforce. The intended launch date is spring 2026.
The collaboration has been supporting ATU-Ozark in designing a series of micro-credentials that align with workforce needs and prepare students for in-demand careers.
These professional skills trainings will provide targeted learning opportunities in four key professional skill areas: industrial maintenance technician, community health advocate, fundamentals of supervision and digital marketing.
Micro-credentials are short, focused, learning experiences that center specific skills and competencies to quickly allow learners direct entry into the workforce. They are built to allow learners to demonstrate their abilities in real time and can be completed in one year or less. These credentials are not only aligned to in-demand skills across workforce and industry, but may also stack into existing academic programs at the college.
The initiative is being led at ATU-Ozark by Erin Brickley, associate registrar, and Brianna Ingram, assistant director of academic services. Alina House, assistant director of fiscal affairs, and Brooke Elser, administrative specialist III, are serving as the project’s data leads. The micro-credentials will be launched and implemented through the business and industry division of ATU-Ozark.
“A primary mission of ATU-Ozark is to meet the needs of Arkansas’ workforce and empower individuals to achieve meaningful careers,” said Dr. Sheila Jacobs, ATU-Ozark chancellor. “These micro-credentials will give learners a faster, more flexible path to success and strengthen the pipeline of skilled professionals across our region. By offering short-term, skills-focused credentials, ATU-Ozark aims to make higher education more accessible and aligned with workforce demands. The new professional skills training program reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to preparing a career-ready workforce and supporting the economic growth of Arkansas.”
For more information about ATU-Ozark Campus, visit www.atu.edu/ozark.
