In this unit, you will learn about each of our area’ s major employers- those companies that employ the largest number of workers in Springdale and Northwest Arkansas. These companies include a wide range of services from construction to food service. You are likely familiar with many of their names. Chances are, you don’ t know about all the advanced, and sometimes surprising, career opportunities they offer.
The poultry industry is the backbone of Springdale’ s workforce and creates jobs for thousands of people. Processing plants provide many career opportunities for machine operators, welders, machinists and supervisors. The poultry industry plays a major role in the city’ s history and its success can be credited with other areas of economic growth.
Retailers are also some of our area’ s largest employers. Our area is home to one of the largest retailers in the world, along with other retail chains that serve Arkansas and surrounding states. These companies help bring people from around the country and globe to live and work in Northwest Arkansas. In addition to careers at their headquarters, retailers offer careers as store managers, assistant managers and department managers.
As our area grows, so does our need for high-quality health care. The health care industry is predicted to be one of our region’ s fastest-growing fields and is expected to add more than 2,700 jobs over the next 10 years. Area hospitals are expanding to better serve our community’ s needs. All these medical facilities employ a large number nurses, aides, technicians, maintenance personnel, human resources and administrative workers, information technology employees and many others.
As you read through this section of the magazine, you will learn more about what it takes to start a career at each of these major employers, the type of living you can make, and the skills and education you will need to be successful at Springdale’ s major employers. Our economy is creating thousands of jobs for skilled employees as our city continues to grow and change. By preparing now for one of these careers, you can help ensure a successful future.
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