
The Lexicon Academy of Advanced Manufacturing and Construction at Mills University Studies High School in Little Rock officially launched Wednesday.
The program is a collaboration between Lexicon Inc. of Little Rock, the Academies of Central Arkansas, Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD) and Mills University Studies High School.
The Lexicon Academy aims to offer students robust, real-world learning experiences throughout all four years of high school. Beginning with the freshman seminar, students will engage in career exploration activities, such as welding training, mentorship and educational opportunities with industry professionals.
They will also participate in the annual Academies of Central Arkansas Career Expo event, which brings together business leaders like those from Lexicon to connect with ninth graders through hands-on interactions.
This academic year, students have participated in industry tours, job shadowing experiences, career mentoring and mock interviews. As seniors, students will work toward earning concurrent credit, gaining industry-recognized certifications and completing a capstone project co-designed by Lexicon employees and faculty at the high school. They will also receive internship opportunities at Lexicon.
“The students at Mills University Studies High School represent the future of our industry, and we are proud to support them through hands-on training, mentorship and real-world learning,” Patrick Schueck, CEO of Lexicon, said in a press release.
Lexicon has been expanding its workforce development amidst the ongoing labor shortage in the construction and manufacturing industries.
“The Lexicon Academy of Advanced Manufacturing and Construction is a commitment to empowering young people with the skills, confidence and opportunities they need to succeed in high-demand trades,” Schueck said in the release. “We’re honored to help train this next generation of builders, problem-solvers and innovators right here in central Arkansas.”
Schueck has previously told Arkansas Business that there is a gap between education and industry. This program aims to bridge that and prepare students for “high-wage, high-demand careers,” according to Jay Chesshir, president and CEO of the Little Rock Regional Chamber. The Academies of Central Arkansas is an initiative of the chamber.
Chesshir said in the press release that “Lexicon’s investment in our young people” is strengthening the workforce pipeline and helping transform lives.
The new program is one example of ongoing workforce development in the state.