SAU Tech secures $20 million to launch Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence

EAST CAMDEN, Ark. (KATV) — Southern Arkansas University Tech announced that they have secured $20 million in federal funding to launch a Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence.

SAU Chancellor Dr. Terry Jones says the Center will “strengthen workforce development and economic growth in South Arkansas.”

That $20 million sum will be distributed into $15 million for the construction of a new 50,000 square foot facility and $5 million for advanced instructional and training equipment.

The money was secured through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations.

“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.”

He says the facility will support aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing education with simulation and manufacturing laboratories, industrial training areas, and classrooms. It will host programs in advanced manufacturing, industrial systems, automation, cybersecurity, and energy technologies.

“This funding is critical to help establish this innovative program and obtain the proper equipment to train tomorrow’s aerospace and defense manufacturing workforce, further bolstering Arkansas’s leading role in supporting our national defense,” said U.S. Senator John Boozman, who sponsored the push for funding. “I was proud to champion both components of this landmark project and am confident the result will demonstrate a responsible use of taxpayer dollars to develop and strengthen our economy.”

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