De Queen, AR – April 23, 2025 – The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas have demonstrated their commitment to workforce development and the future of broadband infrastructure by donating utility poles to Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas as part of a pole replacement project that will ready the college’s Aerial Lineman Program pole yard for 2025/2026 students.

“This generous contribution will provide students with hands-on training opportunities, equipping them with the skills needed to maintain and expand broadband services across the State.” said Dr. Cole, Chancellor. Adding, “As broadband connectivity becomes increasingly vital for education, business, and daily life, the program ensures that aspiring linemen receive the experience necessary to meet industry demands.

"We are proud to support the next generation of linemen who will play a critical role in keeping our communities connected.  By investing in training programs like the one at UA Cossatot, we are strengthening our workforce and ensuring reliable service for the future." said Dean McDowell, Sr. Director of Infrastructure & Network Operations for the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas. 

The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas comprise 17 electric distribution cooperatives, along with Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI) and Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corp. (AECC), which provide essential services and power generation for communities across the state. With a customer base of approximately 1.2 million members, the cooperatives remain dedicated to supporting education, infrastructure, and workforce training.

The Aerial Lineman Program is a free Arkansas Fiber Academy program funded by the Office of Skills Development. The short-term career training program was co-designed with industry partners to provide participants with an opportunity to embark on a meaningful and rewarding career in the telecommunications construction industry.  In addition to free training, supportive services are available to assist qualifying participants with transportation costs, and graduates are equipped with over $3,000 in personal protective equipment and climbing gear to begin their career.

For more information about the Aerial Lineman Program at Cossatot Community College or the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, please visit cccua.edu or contact Continuing Education Services at ContinuingEducation@cccua.edu or text/call (870) 584-1178.