SAU Tech Announces $20 Million Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence Investment

Southern Arkansas University Tech Secures $20 Million to Launch Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence

Southern Arkansas university Tech (SAU Tech) has announced a $20 million federal investment to establish a Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence, a transformative project aimed at expanding workforce development and driving economic growth across South Arkansas.

The announcement was made by SAU Tech Chancellor Dr. Jerry Thomas during a press conference at the SAU Tech Student Center in East Camden, attended by regional leaders, industry partners, elected officials, educators, and members of the media.

A Major Investment in Workforce Development

The $20 million investment includes:

• $15 million for construction of a new, state-of-the-art training facility

• $5 million for advanced instructional and manufacturing equipment

The funding was secured through Fiscal Year 2026 federal appropriations, with leadership from U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR).

"This $20 million investment is about more than bricks and mortar," said Dr. Thomas. "It's about creating high-wage, high-demand careers right here in South Arkansas. Our graduates will be prepared to step into $50,000-$75,000 jobs, strengthen our local economy, and help our region compete at the highest level."

Inside the Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence

The new Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence will span approximately 50,000 square feet and be purpose-built to support education and training in aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing.

Planned features include:

• Advanced simulation and manufacturing laboratories

• High-bay industrial training areas

• Flexible classrooms designed for rapid workforce upskilling

• Collaborative spaces for industry engagement and partnerships

The facility will be designed to evolve alongside emerging technologies, ensuring students receive hands-on training with industry-standard equipment that reflects real-world manufacturing environments.

Expanding High-Demand Technical Programs

The center will significantly expand SAU Tech's academic and workforce training programs, including:

• Advanced manufacturing

• Industrial systems and automation

• Cybersecurity

• Energy and emerging technologies

These programs are aligned with employers needs and designed to prepare graduates to enter the workforce job-ready on day one.

Federal and Industry Support Strengthens Regional Impact

Ahead of the announcement, Senator Boozman emphasized the national and economic importance of the project.

"This funding is critical to help establish this innovative program and obtain the proper equipment to train tomorrow's aerospace and defense manufacturing workforce," Boozman said. "It further bolsters Arkansas's leading role in supporting our national defense and demonstrates a responsible use of taxpayer dollars to strengthen our economy."

Dr. Thomas noted that the project builds on recent state investments such as the HIRED Grant and reflects strong collaboration with regional and national defense partners, including:

• Lockheed Martin

• L3Harris

• General Dynamics

• Raytheon

• Armtec Defense

• R2S

"This project reflects the confidence our partners have in SAU Tech and in South Arkansas," Dr. Thomas said. "Because of this investment, when employers are ready to grow, our workforce will be ready to lead."

Driving Long-Term Economic Growth in South Arkansas

Once operational, the Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence is expected to train hundreds of skilled workers each year, supporting job creation, workforce retention, and economic competitiveness across multiple counties in South Arkansas.

This initiative positions SAU Tech as a regional leader in defense and advanced manufacturing education, while creating new pathways to high-wage careers for Arkansans.

For more information about Southern Arkansas University Tech and its programs, visit www.sautech.edu.