Mike Rogers was previously senior director of maintenance and refrigeration at Tyson Foods Inc. He also taught agriculture and industrial maintenance at Siloam Springs High School for 20 years and was the energy manager of the Siloam Springs School District for 16 years.
Rogers obtained a Bachelor of Science in agriculture education and a master’s in education from the University of Arkansas.
What does the state’s chief workforce officer do?
Develops the Arkansas workforce strategy; chairs the workforce cabinet, consisting of the Commerce, Corrections, Education, Human Services, Labor & Licensing, Transformation & Shared Services and Veteran Affairs departments; sets and reaches attainable workforce metrics; innovates and integrates a whole state government digital solution for workforce and wrap-around services; develops a system that meets Arkansans where they are and supports their career goals.
What are the top skills employers are looking for in workers these days?
Top 12: emotional intelligence, durable skills, technical, measurement, safety, equipment, mechanical, electrical, math, reading comprehension, natural curiosity and situational awareness.
Would you rather see someone go to college or a trade school? Why?
Both, or either, with purpose and intentionality.
How is the state working with private businesses to ensure they can find the right kinds of workers?
By focusing on aptitude, capability and demonstration of skill. Talent recognition is critical to talent acquisition.
What do you think are the main takeaways from the workforce report and strategy released earlier this year?
Identifying key industries and skills unique to Arkansas. Bringing all partners from employers and job seekers to education and communities to find resources available.
How can the state ensure those takeaways are implemented and not just words on paper?
It’s the adage, if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. We need to make key investments in actionable decisions that bring value.
You have an interesting background, with a master’s degree as well as skills in HVAC, welding and industrial maintenance. Is the state getting the message across to young people that careers in the skilled trades can be rewarding and pay well?
As I travel the state, I hear the stories of nontraditional career paths. I am convinced that we are all created with a unique ability and skill set to do amazing things. I want to champion and validate those who go against the grain to provide for themselves and their families.
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