IntroLetter-FInal

A Message from our Chairman... As you think about life after high school, you might imagine buying a car, owning a home and maybe having a family someday. You might wonder how you’ll ever get a “good” job to be able to afford all that. The fact is, there are hundreds of good, high-paying jobs in our community going unfilled because companies can’t find people with the skills they need. Why? In many cases, it’s because we’ve been told that we must have a college degree to get a good job. That misperception has created enormous demand and career opportunities for people with the skills to design, build and manufacture the things we use every day. This publication, developed and written by the Springdale Chamber of Commerce, gives you a valuable resource to help learn about and plan for great careers in our community. This magazine includes information about the many in-demand careers available at local companies, and it gives you an important edge in the job market by detailing the skills you’ll need to win those jobs. These careers offer excellent pay starting right after graduation. In many cases, they pay more than some jobs that require a college degree, ensuring you can have a great quality of life here in Northwest Arkansas. As you read this magazine, think about how your own interests may align with the products and services offered by each company. My hope is that you will discover a career path that interests you. My challenge is for you to share your career goals with family and teachers. Take classes in school that can prepare you now for a successful career. Springdale is a great place to live, work and learn, but we can make it even better! That will happen as you take aim at creating the future you want. Sincerely, Mitchell Johnson 2016 Chamber Board of Directors Chairman President/CEO Ozarks Electric Cooperative