Talent Development Programs

Led by the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce, Jr. Leadership is a networking and leadership program for high school juniors.  Jr. Leadership exposes students to a broad spectrum of careers, develops a spirit of service, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at Jonesboro.

Emerging Leaders is an in-depth mentorship program that introduces 15 young community leaders to crucial leadership perspectives in both business and economic development.  In addition, program members undergo additional leadership assessments and training that ensure their growth for years to come.

Get to Know Jonesboro is our program for newly-relocated employees to make connections and learn about their new home.  This program features a day of fun and education about things that are uniquely Jonesboro.  It meets in the spring and fall, but we have also added a program for interns who are in Jonesboro for the summer.

The best teachers don't solely teach from the textbook, but from their own learned experiences!  TekStarz: Educators Externship drops local educators into the heart of Jonesboro's manufacturing sector.  For two days, they get their hands dirty and ideas flowing about the career possibilities in STEM fields that await their students in the future.

A framework of teamwork, Growing Talent Together unites local employers and educators to develop an understanding of the future needs of regional employers.

Our annual awards presented to local K-6 students by local business professionals for excellence in the classroom in spite of personal challenges and barriers.

Arkansas Scholars is a state-wide initiative designed to promote academic success by encouraging students to stay in school.

A local program designed to create an interest in entrepreneurship in Jonesboro-area high school students.

A non-profit made up of industry professionals who work with Arkansas State University-Newport to deliver employee training.

Leadership Jonesboro is designed to identify, educate, and motivate potential leaders to become involved in the future of our community.  Participants are challenged by speakers from many sectors to make a personal commitment to become part of the rich leadership pool, which has made Jonesboro’s quality of life what it is today.

Arkansas Economic Development Commission Manufacturing Solutions (AEDC-MS) is affiliated with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) that provides services to maximize manufacturers' enterprise value.  Arkansas Economic Development Commission Manufacturing Solutions (AEDC-MS) was established in 1995 and is a program of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. 

Jonesboro Young Professionals Network (JYPN) is an organization designed to create networking opportunities, provide professional development, support community involvement/service and promote an overall investment in the future of Jonesboro, Arkansas.  JYPN is an association for professionals who are 21-39 years of age and employees of businesses that are members of the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The Delta Center for Economic Development coordinates the economic development outreach services of A-State and works to provide a comprehensive approach to serving businesses, governments, and citizens of Arkansas.  Services include customized training and support for area businesses, existing organizations, and entrepreneurs.