The Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce proudly presented its 2022 Tech Talent Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 to Jameria Campbell.  Jameria, a 2022 graduate of Jonesboro High School, is currently enrolled at Arkansas State University-Newport at Jonesboro, where she is pursuing a Technical Certification in Welding.

“I am thriving in my youth and driven to make a difference in my community. When given the chance of opportunity, I will always put in 110% effort. That is why I chose to major in welding. With welding being such a diverse and growing career field, there are plenty of opportunities to grow in the workplace.”

                --Jameria Campbell, Scholarship Winner

The scholarship was developed by the Chamber’s Workforce Development Committee to support students pursuing technical education in Advanced Manufacturing, Industrial Maintenance or Welding.

From Left to Rige: Ken Beach, ASU-Newport; Shelle Randall, Vice President of Chamber Administration and Director of Workforce Development and Existing Industry; Jameria Campbell and her children, Scholarship Winner; Mayor Harold Copenhaver

Volunteers of the Committee annually impact almost 3,000 K-12 students by connecting educators and students with business and industry. Volunteers provide career mentoring, leadership training, networking, recognition, volunteer opportunities and internships.

“This scholarship project and others are successful due to the hard work and imagination of our team. Our committee of volunteers is able to show Jonesboro is consistently working to provide our future workforce with talented and skilled people. Thank you to everyone who helped in providing this scholarship to Jameria.”

                --Shanna Kennedy, Committee Chair

The Workforce Development Committee partners with key organizations each year that fund its projects.  Post Consumer Brands is again the Presenting Sponsor for this scholarship. Platinum sponsors are Corter Consulting, NEA Baptist and St. Bernards Healthcare. The Gold Sponsor is Farm Credit Midsouth.

“Post is thrilled to support a program like this that gives young people valuable skills as they enter the workplace. Skilled and diverse workers, like Jameria, are in demand everywhere. We appreciate the opportunity to show support to our future industry leaders. Congratulations, Jameria.”

                -- Brigette Fresz, Plant Manager, Post Consumer Brands

Welding is a skill in high demand in the Jonesboro region. Welders are sought after by Jonesboro’s growing industrial base. According to Jonesboro Unlimited’s 2020 Jonesboro Area Industry Wage & Benefit Survey, welders earn an average hourly rate of $20.00-$21.00.

Arkansas State University-Newport reports that ASUN students graduating with a Technical Certificate in Welding or higher will be prepared for entry-level positions in welding manufacturing, construction, and custom fabrication.